J.M. Smucker to invest US$120M in Hostess plant expansion in Georgia
The expansion is part of Smucker’s broader effort to integrate Hostess into its newly formed Sweet Baked Snacks division, aiming to achieve US$100 million in cost synergies by fiscal 2026.
USA – The J.M. Smucker Co. has announced a major expansion of its Hostess manufacturing facility in Columbus, Georgia, committing US$120 million to boost production capacity and modernize operations.
The initiative, unveiled by local economic development group Choose Columbus, includes the construction of a new building, equipment upgrades, and plant renovations, with completion expected by early 2027.
The investment follows recent efforts by J.M. Smucker to strategize on Hostess brand repositioning amid revenue decline.
Additionally, this strategic investment follows Smucker’s US$5.6 billion acquisition of Hostess Brands LLC in November 2023.
The Columbus facility, which has produced Hostess sweet baked snacks for over five decades, will gain at least 48 new jobs, adding to its current workforce of approximately 350 employees.
Beaux Williamson, facility manager, emphasized the company’s commitment to the region: “We are pleased to expand production in Columbus to meet consumer demand and support the community we’re proud to be part of.”
The expansion is part of Smucker’s broader effort to integrate Hostess into its newly formed Sweet Baked Snacks division, aiming to achieve US$100 million in cost synergies by fiscal 2026.
While the Columbus plant is growing, other Hostess facilities are being consolidated or divested.
Smucker plans to close its Indianapolis plant by 2026 and has sold off brands like Big Texas and Cloverhill, along with a Chicago facility, to JTM Foods for US$40 million.
Despite challenges, including declining sales and profits in the Sweet Baked Snacks segment, Smucker is doubling down on its most promising assets.
The Columbus expansion signals confidence in Hostess’s core product lines and the plant’s strategic value.
A SKU rationalization program is underway to streamline offerings, and a new sales organization has been created to reinvigorate the brand.
Local leaders hailed the investment as a win for economic development. Pace Halter, chairman of Choose Columbus, noted, “Smucker’s decision to grow here proves Columbus is a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”
With construction already in progress, the expansion marks a pivotal moment for Smucker’s snack strategy, balancing consolidation with targeted growth to stabilize and strengthen its Hostess portfolio.
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