Lassonde Industries Inc., a manufacturer of fruit juices and drinks has confirmed the expansion of its Mountain Home Industrial Park location, according to a news release. The $55 million project includes the construction of a new facility as well as the addition of a new production line.

‘’We are grateful to Henderson County for their support and look forward to continuing our commitment to the community for many years to come,” said Nathalie Lassonde, CEO of Lassonde Industries.

The company currently employs 135 individuals and expects to add 30 new permanent employees with average wages exceeding the county’s average wage, the release said.

“The expansion of our plant in Henderson County is a major project for Lassonde and will allow us to meet the growing demand for store brand juice and beverage products across the U.S.,” said Cade Culver, President of Lassonde Pappas, the company’s Retail-owned Brand (private brand) division. “We look forward to continuing our long-standing commitment to the community of Henderson County. We have several locations across the country; deciding to expand here is a testament to the local workforce and the business-friendly environment in Henderson County.”

Residing in a nearly 400,000-square-foot campus, Lassonde currently has four production lines and extensive warehousing in the county. With the production of over 200,000 gallons of juices and beverages per day, the company’s Henderson County production represents more than 200 flavors, including grape juice, apple juice, mixers, lemonades, teas, and more, the release said.

The investment will only further distribution channels and increase production capabilities, to keep up with today’s market demands, according to Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development Chair Steve Gwaltney.

“Lassonde has been a long-standing employer in our community. When we started our Made in Henderson County work over a decade ago, they were the first employer to host tours for educators,” Gwaltney said in the release. “They continue to be integrated in the community and this expansion will solidify their contribution in the community.”

Based on the significant investment, job creation, and strong wages, the project received support for an economic development assistance grant from Henderson County.

“Lassonde Pappas and its leadership exemplify the trust our existing industry puts into our community to be a contributing partner to their success,” Henderson County Board of Commissioners Chair Rebecca McCall said in the release. “We look forward to many more years of shared success with the announcement of this project.”