Haribo Opens First-Ever North American Manufacturing Facility
German confectionery company Haribo has opened its first-ever North American manufacturing facility that it intends to help meet increasing demand from U.S. consumers.
The 500,000-square-foot facility will be located in Pleasant Prairie, WI, and will help produce the gummy brand’s 25 varieties of treats for the U.S. market. It will employ nearly 200 associates and yield hundreds of tons of the company’s iconic Goldbears, with hopes to expand production efforts down the road.
Globally, Haribo produces 160 million Goldbears each day, according to the privately owned company.
"I started my career with Haribo more than 20 years ago, and I'm so proud to be part of the team that made the dream of a U.S. factory come true," said Hakan Zor, chief production officer, Haribo of America, in a statement. "Our associates worked tirelessly to ensure every step was taken with care, with the best quality equipment, technology, and ingredients on the market. The Haribo brand has limitless potential, and producing in the U.S. is an exciting next chapter of our story."
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The new facility is Haribo’s 16th factory and is a multi-phase project, with the first phase including the production facility, warehouse, and administrative offices. In the future, they hope to integrate new technology and increase the number of associates they employ at the facility.
With a focus on community giving, Haribo plans to partner with the Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha and with educational institutions like the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, Carthage College, and Gateway Technical College to provide scholarships and internship opportunities.
"At Haribo we think in generations. We are in the U.S. for the long-term and are honored to be part of the Pleasant Prairie community," said Wes Saber, chief financial officer, Haribo of America. “One of our core values is trust, and it was important for us to give back to the people of Pleasant Prairie who have welcomed us so warmly.”
