Wright Foods to invest $53m in food processing plant in North Carolina

US-based food processing company Wright Foods is set to expand its food processing and packaging ope…

US-based food processing company Wright Foods is set to expand its food processing and packaging operation in Montgomery County, North Carolina, with an investment of $53m over the next five years.

The project has been announced by Governor Pat McCrory and North Carolina Commerce Secretary Sharon Decker. It is expected to create 505 new jobs.

Wright Foods utilizes state-of-the-art technology developed at North Carolina State University to package its products. The method known as aseptic processing helps improve shelf life and quality of product without the use of any preservatives or refrigeration.

The company currently employs more than 80 people in North Carolina.

Governor Pat McCrory said that one of the top priorities is helping existing businesses grow and expand their operations in North Carolina.

Sharon Decker said: "Companies like Wright Foods choose to do business in North Carolina because we provide them with the tools they need to succeed."

Wright Foods will receive a performance-based grant of $1.5m from the One North Carolina Fund which provides financial assistance through local governments to attract business projects that will accelerate economic activity and create new jobs in the region.