American fresh produce distributor Castellini Group of Companies has announced plans to invest around $52m in the development of a new large-scale fresh-cut fruits and vegetables processing and produce distribution centre in Conley, Georgia.
To be spread over an area of around 180,000ft2, the proposed facility is expected to create 300 jobs, and is expected to open in September 2015.
The produce processed at the facility will be distributed to wholesale, retail and food service customers on the East Coast.
Castellini offers a wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables and value-added services, which include a complete line of organic produce, fresh-cut processing, tomato repacking and transportation for its retail, foodservice and wholesale customers.
Commenting on the development, Castellini Group of Companies president/CEO Bill Schuler said: "Our expansion in the Southeast will allow us to better serve current customers and continue our growth strategy by opening up new markets.
"By working together with the state of Georgia and Clayton County, we're able to further grow our business while bringing much-needed jobs and economic growth to the region. We appreciate all the assistance they've provided to help make this initiative a reality."
District 1 Commissioner Sonna Gregory said: "Castellini's marquee investment in the Highway 42 corridor near the Gillem Logistics Center brings a new level of corporate presence to an area we have long sought to improve, and we are so grateful to the company leadership for selecting Clayton County for these new jobs."
Image: An onion field. Photo courtsey of Freedigitalphotos.net.
