Governor Nathan Deal announced Wednesday that Nestle Purina is looking to invest $320 million in Hart County, bringing a manufacturing facility and distribution center to Hartwell.
Nestle Purina PetCare Co. is expected to create 240 new jobs as well.
“With this new facility, Purina will build upon Georgia’s strategic resources while yielding economic benefits for the Hart County community. We appreciate Purina’s significant investment and look forward to the company’s success here," said Deal in a press release.
The site is also Purina's first new U.S. factory in 20 years.
“We’re very excited and look forward to closing on the property and bringing more quality jobs to the state of Georgia, as well as expanding Purina capacity and distribution in the Southeast," said John Bear, vice president of manufacturing.
The company's $320 million investment will be complete by the end of 2023. The property is expected to be closed on by the end of the year and distribution center operations are expected to begin in 2018, with production to follow in 2019.
Purina currently employs more than 8,000 people in the United States. Brands include Purina ONE, Dog Chow, Friskies, Tidy Cats and Pro Plan.
