The company that Crain’s Chicago Business last year ranked as Chicago’s 16th largest private company is infusing nearly $14-million into their facility on U.S. 20 in Michigan City and adding 50 new jobs in the process. Hearthside Food Solutions will invest $13.6-million in a project that will expand the company’s ability to produce crackers through the installation of a processing, oven and packaging line. 
Hearthside’s expansion will include the addition of processing and packaging equipment, and the 50 new jobs to operate the line going forward.
Economic Development Corporation Michigan City Executive Director Clarence Hulse says, “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,” and adds, “It is always a special opportunity to work with existing businesses that are progressing to new levels in our region.”
For his part, Hearthside Plant Manager Bob Wojcik says, “Our team is ready to build on and accelerate the momentum we have put into place over the years in Michigan City,” adding, “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.”
Headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois, Hearthside is the industry’s leading contract manufacturer. Product lines include baked snacks, nutrition bars, snack bars, fresh foods, prepared meals, frozen foods, granola, and the company is a leading packager of food products for many of the world’s premier brands. Hearthside’s network of 38 production facilities, including the regional site in Michigan City, provides the innovation, flexibility, and scale demanded by global brands. For more information on Hearthside Food Solutions, you can visit online at this link: http://www.hearthsidefoods.com
Michigan City Mayor Duane Parry says, “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.” Parry concludes, “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.”
