Lactalis Starts $55 Million Expansion in Tulare, California
Lactalis USA is spending $55 million on its Tulare, Calif., facility to “significantly increase” its capacity for Président Feta cheese. When complete, it will be Lactalis’ largest feta production line in the U.S.
The new, 38,000-sq.-ft. manufacturing line will create 20 full-time positions in Tulare. Part of the expansion already is underway, with full completion scheduled for 2027. Lactalis also makes feta in Belmont, Wis.
The Tulare plant is one of the most advanced of Lactalis’ 11 manufacturing facilities across the U.S., the company says. The new line is outfitted based on a complete 3D ergonomic analysis to support worker well-being and safety, in addition to automated air flow control and in-line production. Lactalis USA also produces Kraft Parmesan, Knudsen Cottage Cheese and Sour Cream, and Kraft sweet whey powder.
Lactalis Group, based in France, claims to be the world’s largest dairy company. In addition to some small acquisitions since 2011 and the 2021 buy of Kraft’s cheese business for $3 billion, it’s in the process of buying Yoplait and the General Mills yogurt business in the U.S.