Hearthside Food Solutions, a leading contract manufacturer, will invest $13.6 million to expand its production facility in Michigan City, Indiana. The company plans to hire 50 employees.

According to Economic Development Corporation Michigan City, the project will expand its ability to produce crackers with the installation of a processing, oven and packaging line. The expansion will include the addition of processing and packaging equipment.

“Our team is ready to build on and accelerate the momentum we have put into place over the years in Michigan City,” said Hearthside Plant Manager Bob Wojcik. “Our production line allows us to position our company in an even stronger spot within our industry while providing new jobs for Michigan City community members.”

“Hearthside has continued to build on its base here in Michigan City as well as evolve to meet industry needs and flourish as a food contract manufacturer,” said Economic Development Corporation Michigan City Executive Director Clarence Hulse. “It is always a special opportunity to work with existing businesses that are progressing to new levels in our region.”

“Hearthside continues its innovative approach as a means to advance and thrive in the food manufacturing and packaging industry. This project at the Michigan City Plant is another step in the company’s move to entrench itself as the world-class food manufacturer here in Northwest Indiana,” said Michigan City Mayor Duane Parry. “This expansion showcases how the City and the EDCMC partner with leading edge key industries to make positive lasting impacts on Michigan City’s economic landscape, as well as spurring a continuous growth of career job opportunities.”

Headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois, Hearthside’s product lines include baked snacks, nutrition bars, snack bars, fresh foods, prepared meals, frozen foods, granola, and is a leading packager of food products for many of the world’s premier brands. Hearthside’s network of 38 production facilities provides the innovation, flexibility, and scale demanded by global brands.