Nestlé USA has unveiled plans to invest more than $100m to expand its production facility in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

As part of this expansion, the company will be adding a new line at the Jonesboro facility to produce Hot Pockets brand sandwiches.

The investment will also be used to renovate and add 90,000ft² to its facility. The company also plans to hire at least 100 new employees over two years.

Nestlé USA Jonesboro factory manager Mike Mahon said: “Consumers are embracing eating at home like never before and rediscovering the frozen category, an evolution brought on by the pandemic that is showing signs of taking hold for the long-term.

“As we embrace the trend and plan for the future, we’re excited to be investing in our Jonesboro factory to support our Hot Pockets business.”

Nestlé USA opened its Jonesboro facility in 2002, which has since undergone several expansions.

With a workforce of nearly 750 employees, Nestlé’s Jonesboro facility produces frozen foods for the Stouffer’s, Lean Cuisine, DiGiorno, Tombstone, and Sweet Earth brands.

The company plans to begin construction in January next year.

Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Mark Young said: “once again, Nestlé has shown how it continues to invest in the communities they call home.

“This expansion is the latest example of Nestlé’s commitment to Jonesboro. The combination of Nestlé’s products and Jonesboro’s people is heading into its second generation together. We are as excited about our future as we are proud of our history.”