Italian pasta giant Barilla is planning a major expansion of its Livingston County manufacturing operation, with nearly $170 million in investment and more than 90 new jobs expected at its longtime facility in Avon.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday that the company will move forward with a two-phase expansion project at the Town of Avon facility, including a $145 million first phase that adds manufacturing and packaging capacity.
The project includes construction of a new 52,000-square-foot production building, one new production line, three packaging lines, and an additional warehouse facility for storage and distribution. State officials said the expansion is also designed to accommodate a second production line during a future second phase of development.
Barilla expects to create more than 90 new jobs once both phases are complete.
The Avon facility first opened in 2007 following an initial $75 million investment and currently supports roughly 145 jobs in the region.
Hochul said the expansion reflects continued efforts to grow manufacturing and agribusiness industries across upstate New York while strengthening regional economies.
Barilla Americas Supply Chain Vice President Fabio Pettenari said the project will help expand the company’s U.S. production capacity while also reducing carbon emissions tied to transportation and logistics.
Company officials said the expansion is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 3,000 tons annually by strengthening Barilla’s North American supply chain.
Empire State Development is supporting the project with up to $2.75 million in Excelsior Jobs Tax Credits tied to the company’s hiring commitments. The New York Power Authority is also considering assistance, while National Grid, Rochester Gas and Electric, Livingston County, and Greater Rochester Enterprise are participating in the project.
The company expects the first phase of construction to be completed by March 2028.
Barilla operates in more than 100 countries and maintains 30 production sites across 10 countries. The company, founded in Parma, Italy nearly 150 years ago, produces pasta, sauces, and bakery products sold worldwide.
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