On Monday, March 17, Governor Andy Beshear joined Mizkan America for a groundbreaking event in Owensboro.
Mizkan is an industry-leading producer of pasta sauces and vinegars with brands such as RAGÚ and Bertolli.
Governor Beshear announced a $156 million project that will create 44 new full-time jobs. Mizkan will expand its Owensboro facility by approximately 320,000 square feet. The investment will support building improvements, new machinery and equipment, IT upgrades, and a new manufacturing line and warehousing space.
The project will allow the company to manufacture Holland House cooking wine, Mizkan Asian sauces and vinegars, and Nakano rice vinegar at the Owensboro plant for the first time.
“Our factory in Owensboro has been in business for almost 50 years and currently makes around 1 million jars of pasta sauce every day,” said Koichi Yuki, CEO of Mizkan America. “Our Owensboro team has been a huge contributor to Mizkan America’s growth and success over the years. We really believe that the future for our business is bright in Owensboro, and we feel privileged to be part of this wonderful community.”
Mizkan America’s Owensboro team has supported numerous local charities over the years, most notably the Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club, events supporting those with special needs like Night to Shine and the GRADSA Buddy Walk, as well as providing pasta sauce donations to God’s Outreach, which helps address hunger at the local level.
The RAGÚ brand, made in Owensboro, has also partnered with international charity Lasagna Love to celebrate National Lasagna Day.
The Mizkan Group is a privately held international food manufacturer headquartered in Handa, Japan, with a heritage that spans more than 200 years. Daviess County Judge/Executive Charlie Castlen is excited to see the company continue to grow.
“It is impressive to think about the millions of jars of Ragú pasta sauce made every year in our community and shipped around the country,” Castlen said.
“We are grateful that Mizkan selected their Owensboro facility for this new project, cementing their long-term presence here,” he added. “Daviess County is a great place to do business with a talented workforce ready to support further economic growth. Mizkan is one of our top employers, and we look forward to their continued success in our community.”
