BOARDMAN, ORE. — In a $200 million expansion, ConAgra Foods Inc. (NYSE: CAG) will construct an additional 192,000 square feet at its Lamb Weston frozen potato facility in Boardman. The addition of a new production line at the plant will increase capacity for making french fries and other frozen potato products. The expansion is expected to begin in early 2013 with completion slated for 2014.
As consumer demand for frozen potato products continues to grow not only domestically, but internationally, this significant capacity increase is needed to fulfill Lamb Weston’s customer growth projections, according to company officials.
The Boardman facility is strategically located with easy access to the Port of Morrow, further supporting domestic and international growth plans. The plant reflects ConAgra's green initiatives. The Energy Star-certified facility has reduced energy costs and increased recycling at the property. Additionally, the plant relies on reusable water.
“Our need to expand is a testament to our strong customer partnerships, our great tasting french fries, and the outstanding work our employees do every day to create food people love,” says Rick Martin, vice president of global operations for ConAgra Foods Lamb Weston. “We specifically appreciate the efforts and support of the Columbia River Enterprise Zone, Port of Morrow, city of Boardman, Morrow County and the state of Oregon and are proud to be an active part of this thriving community.”
The expansion of the manufacturing plant is expected to create approximately 100 jobs for the region. ConAgra Foods Lamb Weston operates seven facilities in the region, employing 4,500 people, including 500 employees in Boardman and an additional 500 workers in Hermiston, Ore.
“We are excited about Lamb Weston’s commitment to expand its operations in the Columbia Basin,” says Tim McCabe, director of Business Oregon, which works to attract and retain businesses that provide living-wage jobs for Oregonians. “We look forward to working in the near future with the Port of Morrow, city of Boardman and Morrow County as a partner to assist Lamb Weston’s growth and ensure that it remains a major employer in the area for years to come.”
ConAgra Foods is a leading North American food company with several brands including Banquet, Chef Boyardee, Hebrew National, Orville Redenbacher’s, Slim Jim and Snack Pack found in 97 percent of American households. The company’s stock price closed at $27.84 per share on Monday, up from trading at $24.45 per share a year ago.
— Brittany Biddy