Purina opens US$550M pet food plant to expand production capacity

USA – Nestlé Purina has opened a US$550 million pet food manufacturing facility in Batavia, Ohio, expanding its production capacity as demand grows for its pet nutrition portfolio.

The 1.3 million-square-foot facility is Purina’s first factory built from the ground up in more than 50 years and the largest investment by Nestlé in a Purina manufacturing site.

The plant is already producing Purina Pro Plan, Purina ONE and Dog Chow and currently employs more than 430 people. 

The workforce is expected to exceed 500 when the facility reaches full operation.

“Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Purina in Ohio,” said Nina Leigh Krueger, president and CEO of Purina. 

“The Batavia factory reflects our long-term commitment to American manufacturing, innovation and the communities where we operate.”

Advanced manufacturing for pet nutrition

The facility is designed to produce pet food for approximately eight million pets annually and incorporates digital manufacturing technology, robotics and automation to support production efficiency and food safety.

The site also features an automated storage and retrieval system and advanced manufacturing systems intended to provide greater flexibility across Purina’s portfolio.

“What makes Batavia special is the combination of cutting-edge technology and an exceptional team,” said Mike Ferritto, Batavia factory manager. 

“We’re proud to produce high-quality products that pet owners trust while building a strong future right here in Clermont County.”

Purina said the facility will help the company respond more quickly to changing demand for its pet food products while maintaining its quality and nutrition standards.

The Batavia plant becomes Purina’s 24th manufacturing facility in the US and expands its presence in Ohio, where the company has operated its Zanesville factory since 1973.

The company continues to recruit engineers, production operators, and technical specialists as operations expand.

The investment comes as pet owners place greater emphasis on pet health and nutrition, increasing demand for products positioned around nutritional quality and specific health needs.

Purina has also announced two US$30,000 grants through the Purina Foundation to support animal welfare and pet care initiatives in Clermont County.

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