Story by Chris Graham
A Japanese company that has been making stocks, bouillons and natural meat flavorings in Harrisonburg since 1989 announced today that it is investing $18 million to expand its local operations.
“This expansion doubles the size of our existing facility in Harrisonburg,” said Ariake director Jamie Eanes of the 58,000-square-foot expansion, which will create 25 new jobs in the Valley.
Ariake USA was established in Torrance, Calif., in 1985 – and moved to The ‘Burg in 1989 to set up shop closer to its sources of raw materials and also to take advantage of the proximity to the Norfolk shipping port.
The parent company was founded in Japan in 1966 – and currently operates plants in Japan, China, France, Belgium and the U.S.
“This expansion is the company’s second since it moved to Virginia in 1989,” Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine said in a statement on the economic-development news released today.
“Ariake originally chose Harrisonburg for its close proximity to quality raw materials and the Port of Virginia, and we are pleased that decision continues to bring the company success,” Kaine said.
Virginia was in the running for the expansion with a location in Arkansas and another location in China.
(Originally published 03-22-07)
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Chris Graham
