SunOpta has opened a $125 million, 285,000-sq-ft plant-based beverage production facility in Midlothian, Texas. The plant, which has the capacity to expand to 400,000 sq ft, will manufacture the company’s entire line of plant-based milks and creamers, along with tea and other products. When fully expanded, it will be SunOpta’s largest plant for plant-based food and beverages.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the new plant will reduce carbon emissions, conserve water, efficiently utilize power, and use recycled materials. Its strategic location will reduce emissions by 59 million lb through cutting over 15 million freight miles annually. The facility’s water reuse equipment has the potential to save up to 20 million gal of water a year, and its energy-efficient HVAC system is expected to reduce energy consumption by 45%. The facility also includes LED lights and water heaters that can reduce power usage by 95%, as well as offices and labs constructed with at least 40% recyclable materials.
 | The Future Is Here: Evolution of the Food Manufacturing Facility |
In combination with SunOpta’s plants in California, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania, the new plant creates a competitively advantaged, “diamond-shaped” national network for national distribution.
“This plant is an important part of SunOpta’s long-term goals and a powerful next step in our company vision,” says Joe Ennen, CEO of SunOpta. “The fully equipped and state-of-the-art facility will enhance our manufacturing and supply chain capabilities. In addition, through innovation and our dedication to sustainability, we can respond to the increasing nationwide demand for plant-based food and beverages.”
SunOpta has a goal of doubling its plant-based business by 2025, and has invested nearly $200 million in its plant-based production capacity in the last three years to support the accelerated growth and developing demand for plant-based milk alternatives.
