Haribo production at first US manufacturing site is underway

Haribo has made a major investment in its US operations, with production officially under-way at its first-ever North American manufacturing facility, at Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, writes Neill Barston.

Confectionery Production magazine spoke to the brand at this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo, with the business explaining that its performance in the region had experienced notable growth,

The new, state-of-the-art factory was created to meet the growing demand from US consumers for the major gummy brand, which produces over 25 varieties of treats for the U.S. and more than 1,200 types globally.

Currently, the 500,000-square-foot factory is focused on producing HARIBO’s iconic Goldbears, with plans to expand production in the future. The facility currently employs nearly 200 Associates and produces hundreds of tons of Goldbears.

The Pleasant Prairie facility marks HARIBO’s 16th factory and supports the global company’s production of over 160 million Goldbears every day.

Furthermore, the facility is a multi-phase project and this first phase includes the production facility, an administrative building and a warehouse.

Future phases are in development and will include new technology, capacity and hundreds of new Associates to bring the firm’s mission of childlike happiness to life. As the business noted, its top priority is the safety of its associates, consumers and partners, so in order to abide by food safety regulations and protect all stakeholders, the brand does not offer factory tours at this time.

“I started my career with Haribo more than 20 years ago, and I’m so proud to be part of the team that made the dream of a U.S. factory come true,” said Hakan Zor, chief production officer, Haribo of America. “Our Associates worked tirelessly to ensure every step was taken with care, with the best quality equipment, technology and ingredients on the market. The Haribo brand has limitless potential and producing in the US is an exciting next chapter of our story.”

Consequently, the business chose Pleasant Prairie, Wis., located in Kenosha County, as its U.S. manufacturing location because of its shared values of quality, trust and independence, coupled with the work ethic of the region and warm welcome from the community. The factory has already brought hundreds of career opportunities to the community, with hundreds more slated as the facility continues to expand over the next several years to diversify production.