Trouw Nutrition broke ground on a $12.1 million addition to its Pilot Plant in Highland, IL.
The expansion increases the 8,100-square-foot Pilot Plant to a 32,052-square-foot modern facility. By repurposing the building sustainably, Trouw Nutrition is able to limit the energy and materials required for the new plant, according to a press release.
Trouw Nutrition continues to invest in blending technology for the pet food industry, with this project marking the start of the company’s growth plan.
Named the Blending Innovation Center, the expansion enables Trouw Nutrition to bring in additional business opportunities, the release explains.
“This is a very exciting day for the Trouw Nutrition Companion Animal Division,” said Terri Boeser, general manager of Trouw Nutrition’s U.S. Companion Animal Division. “We are proud to partner with The Korte Company and to begin construction of our new Blending Innovation Center. The Blending Innovation Center will not only bring new opportunities to the pet food industry, but also to the Highland area, where we will expand our footprint and bring new jobs to the area.”
The Blending Innovation Center will initially create new jobs with plans to increase as the growth plan evolves, according to the release
“This new facility reflects Trouw’s continued investment in our U.S. Companion Animal Division and the broader pet food industry,” said Dan Baker, managing director of Trouw Nutrition’s U.S. operations. “This addition will enable us to grow and expand our unique ingredient offerings for our customers to further support pet health and welfare for years to come.”
Led by Director of Operations for Trouw Nutrition’s U.S. Companion Animal Division Andy Fischer, the operations team played a significant role in developing the design of the facility.
“It’s not every day that you can be part of a team that comes up with an innovative new technology that changes the game,” said Fischer. “Our team has worked for over a year to investigate new ideas, complete a comprehensive design review and have every member of our group provide input on how we will operate. The design will enable us to meet unique customer needs and be a supplier of choice. Combine the innovation with our high standard of quality and the dedication of our great team and we will continue our long history as a mainstay for our community and families.”
Trouw Nutrition partnered with The Korte Company previously on the construction of the Pilot Plant. The addition of the Blending Innovation Center increases the company’s Highland campus, which includes a premix plant, a warehouse and two office buildings.
“The Korte Company is proud to be partnering with Trouw once again to design and construct their newest facility in Highland, Illinois, and are excited to be working with them as they continue to expand and develop their product lines,” said Jay Korte, client relations, The Korte Company.
The Korte Company plans to finish construction by the end of 2021.