Italian confectionery group Ferrero has inaugurated a $75 million production line in Franklin Park, Illinois, marking a strategic milestone for the company’s North American operations and the first-ever US production of Nutella.
The new facility will produce Nutella Peanut, a flavour extension that signals a notable evolution for the globally recognised brand. The investment is expected to generate 50 new jobs, reinforcing Ferrero’s regional manufacturing presence.
Michael Lindsey, president and chief business officer of Ferrero North America, highlighted the significance of the launch, stating: “Nutella Peanut and this new facility showcase Ferrero’s dedicated and talented teams, commitment to growth in North America, and the company’s ability to thoughtfully and effectively evolve brands that have been loved for generations. We’re thrilled to see Nutella Peanut roll off the line right here in the US.”
STRENGTHENING A MULTI-SITE US NETWORK
The Franklin Park plant adds to Ferrero’s established footprint in Illinois, which already includes a manufacturing campus in Bloomington, as well as an innovation centre and R&D laboratories in Chicago. The company also operates a facility producing Keebler products in the state.
Ferrero noted that the new Nutella Peanut product is made using hazelnuts sourced from Oregon and peanuts from Georgia and other southeastern states, underlining a domestically integrated supply chain.
The Franklin Park site itself already manufactures well-known confectionery brands such as Butterfinger and Baby Ruth. Beyond Illinois, Ferrero maintains production facilities across Georgia, Kentucky, Ohio, Arizona, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, positioning the company for continued expansion in the US market.