U.S.-based Kraft Foods has announced it will invest £6 million (or about US$9.36 million) at its Owlerton factory in Sheffield, England. It's anticipated the project will create 60 jobs.

A company spokesperson said the investment will allow the American food giant to bake Oreo and BelVita biscuits in the UK for the first time, alongside Trebor, Maynards and Bassetts candy.

"It is great that Kraft Foods recognizes the strength of the UK as a manufacturing centre," said Ian Dearn, Kraft's head of manufacturing in Sheffield.

Hillsborough and Brightside MP David Blunkett said he's "very pleased" with the large investment by Kraft, expected to generate both new jobs and wider economic benefits. "It will also provide a new production line and therefore greater security for the site in the foreseeable future." He added that "such good news is desperately needed" given the growing levels of unemployment and insecurity affecting so many families in the area.

According to Kraft, it has invested £22 million in the Sheffield plant since March 2010.