Zentis Food Solutions North America, a producer of fruit preparations for the bakery and dairy industries, plans a $15.6 million expansion at its 180,000-square-foot Plymouth, Indiana manufacturing plant, creating up to 67 new jobs.

The manufacturer, a subsidiary of Germany-based confectioner Zentis GmbH, will expand its production capabilities to include a new allergen production line, bulk sugar handling system and mixing vessels.

"Companies like Zentis are finding that when it comes to growing your business, there is no better place in the world than Indiana," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "As a center for the manufacturing industry, we are proud to see Zentis continue to invest in our state and bring more jobs to Hoosiers."

Zentis, which currently has more than 250 full-time employees at its plant, 2050 N Oak Drive in Plymouth, has already begun hiring additional manufacturing, logistics and management associates. "Our industry has seen tremendous growth over the years with demand for our products increasing exponentially," said Norbert Weichele, chief executive officer of Zentis. "With low-labor costs and its key location, Indiana was the best choice for us to grow our operations."

Zentis currently produces more than 10 million pounds of filling and preparation products monthly. The century-old parent company operates additional production facilities in Poland and Hungary and sales offices in Russia and China.

As an incentive, Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Zentis up to $450,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. In addition, the city of Plymouth approved additional property tax abatement at the request of the Marshall County Economic Development Corporation.

"Plymouth is pleased to support the continued growth of Zentis, a family-owned, major multinational corporation that promotes excellence in modern food manufacturing, research and development," said Plymouth Mayor Mark Senter. "We are particularly glad to see the high-caliber research and development positions created as a result of this expansion. Zentis is appreciated in Plymouth as a major employer and corporate citizen."