Oberto to invest in jerky snacks production capabilities in Washington, US

Jerky snacks maker Oberto Brands is planning to expand its production facility in Kent, Washington, in a bid to achieve better operating efficiency.

Work under the proposed expansion includes the installation of new jerky making equipment and modernisation of existing lines at the facility.

This investment in the facility is expected to create new jobs in the region over the next few years.

The company plans to divest its facility in Albany, Oregon, and to shut down its manufacturing operations in Nashville, Tennessee by April 2016.

The Nashville plant closure will impact 82 jobs, the company said.

Oberto operations senior vice-president Jason Blake said: "While it is always difficult to consolidate manufacturing facilities, we are thrilled to be expanding our capabilities in Kent.

"With these changes, we will dedicate more resources to quality improvements and technology upgrades.

"Additionally, having all manufacturing operations under the same roof as our R&D lab will lead to increased innovation and business growth."

Oberto said the beef jerky market is growing as the demand for high protein and low fat options is increasing. The company claims to achieve record sales and market share levels in recent years as a result of its commitment to product quality and innovation.

Founded in 1918 by Constantino Oberto in Seattle, Washington, Oberto Brands meat snacks including all natural jerky, pepperoni and other smoked meats.

The company sells its products under the Oberto, Oberto Classics, Lowrey’s Meat Snacks, Pacific Gold Beef Jerky and Cattleman’s Cut brands.