Goya Foods began construction on its new 615,000-square-foot headquarters and regional distribution center in Jersey City, New Jersey, expected to open in spring of 2014.

The firm said its new center will ensure the retention of over 500 existing local jobs and the addition of more than 80 new positions at Goya Foods in Jersey City, as well as more than 150 on-site construction jobs.

"This marks Goya's largest expansion in the company's history," says Bob Unanue, President of Goya Foods. "For over 76 years, we have built this company into what it is today, the leading brand within the Hispanic market and a company that is widely recognized in the food industry and in this country. We are proud of the entrepreneurial spirit, talent, dedication and hard work of individuals that have made this success possible."

The new site, located on 360 County Road, will feature 577,000-square-feet of warehouse space and 38,000-square-feet of office space, totaling 615,000-square-feet on 40 acres of undeveloped land in the Meadowlands.

"We were able to find a property that would allow us to expand and grow while keeping our manufacturing close by in Secaucus," says Peter Unanue, Executive Vice President of Goya Foods. "Secaucus has been home to Goya for almost 40 years. It was important for us to stay in New Jersey and to continue to make a strong impact on the communities that we serve in the metro area and beyond. We believe that in our new space, Goya will continue to deliver the best possible service to our loyal consumers and customers."

"Goya is a world-renowned company that has long been a staple of the New Jersey manufacturing industry, providing hundreds of jobs for New Jersey residents and strengthening our economy," said Governor Chris Christie. "Goya's decision to commit to our state and grow their operations will not only result in more jobs for our residents, but also serves as another example of a world-class company that recognizes New Jersey as a place to succeed, grow and prosper."

Last year the New Jersey Economic Development Authority provided Goya with an $82 million tax incentive to keep the firm's expansion in the Garden State. "My Administration will continue to pursue and enact policies that retain and attract companies like Goya, creating new job opportunities for New Jersey families, and capital investment and development in our communities," Gov. Christie said.