HARIBO, maker of the classic gummy bear candy, has announced plans to open a manufacturing facility in Wisconsin. This would be the company’s first North American manufacturing facility, signaling a positive trend for the industry as a whole.
According to Wisconsin governor Scott Walker, the new HARIBO manufacturing facility will bring some 400 jobs to the state. HARIBO is a German-based company that’s most known for its “GoldBear” candy. Up until now, it has yet to open a manufacturing facility on North American soil. But that’s about to change, as the company announced big plans for its upcoming Wisconsin facility.
The new facility, set to be located in Pleasant Prairie, will be roughly 500,000 square feet, with an expected date of completion aiming for 2020. Of course, building the manufacturing facility isn’t cheap. According to Walker, it will cost more than $242 million. HARIBO, however, can expect to see some tax incentives for opening the facility.
When speaking to reporters, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation confirmed that HARIBO will in fact receive a package of tax incentives, though it’s not clear exactly what those tax incentives will be. The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation is expected to release the details once the WEDC board votes on a package.
“On behalf of the state, I want to thank HARIBO for its decision to establish its North American manufacturing operations in Kenosha County, and I applaud the company for its commitment to Wisconsin,” Governor Walker said in a statement. “As a global company with products that are loved by millions, and a legacy that dates back nearly a century, HARIBO is a great fit with the many other iconic companies that already call Wisconsin home. The state’s business-friendly climate and strong fiscal management, along with our dedicated workforce and reliable infrastructure, are among the many reasons HARIBO decided Wisconsin was the right choice for this facility. This project would not have been possible without the outstanding partnership between the company, state government and local and regional officials, who have worked tirelessly on this project for months.”
HARIBO’s upcoming manufacturing facility can be found in the Village of Pleasant Prairie, just west of I-94. Local authorities are planning to sell the land to HARIBO for no less than market-value price.
What do you think of HARIBO’s decision to open a manufacturing facility in Wisconsin?
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