Heartland Pet Products, one of the country's largest independent pet-food companies, began construction on its $85 million, 400,000 square foot, manufacturing and distribution center at Joplin, Missouri's Crossroads Industrial Park, in an investment that is expected to create up to 150 jobs.
Bill Bishop, Chief Executive Officer of Heartland's parent company, Blue Buffalo, said the firm wanted to locate its manufacturing and distribution center in the Joplin because of the availability of ingredients and good transportation routes.
Gov. Jay Nixon said the Heartland Pet Products facility represents a major capital investment by pet-food maker Blue Buffalo Company. "Just as we saw this summer with Coca-Cola and Schaeffler Group USA, Joplin continues to see exciting economic developments, with another national brand like Blue Buffalo Company investing in this community. This is more evidence that Missouri's stable and positive business climate is helping to move our economy forward, while creating jobs and prosperity for more Missourians," he said.
The Governor's Office said Conn.-based Blue Buffalo Company could be eligible for a strategic economic incentive package from the state of Missouri if it meets the strict job creation and investment criteria.
