Key Takeaways
- Campbell’s Goldfish cracker plant in Richmond, Utah underwent a $160 million expansion, adding significant production capacity.
- New on-site flour mill enhances supply chain sustainability, reducing carbon emissions by eliminating 2,236 truckloads annually.
- The expansion is set to create 85 new jobs by 2027, while producing 5 million Goldfish crackers per hour.
Expansion Overview
Since its U.S. debut in 1962, Goldfish crackers have become a popular snack, with projected annual sales reaching $1 billion in 2024. To increase production, Campbell’s Company expanded its Richmond, Utah plant, which plays a vital role in supplying the western United States.
Tony Hernandez, the director of site operations, noted that the previous facilities were unable to meet the growing demand for Goldfish, especially as the company recovered from the impacts of COVID-19. Thus, a $160 million project named Project FINN was launched, which added a fourth cracker line and expanded the facility’s footprint to 400,000 square feet.
This expansion allows the Richmond plant to produce 5 million Goldfish crackers per hour, setting new benchmarks for production efficiency and packaging. The project also received recognition as an honorable mention in FOOD ENGINEERING’s 2025 Plant of the Year awards.
Geographic Significance
The Richmond plant primarily serves the western U.S., including major markets in California and Texas. Previously, the facility relied on support from plants in Ohio and Pennsylvania due to its capacity constraints. The expansion aims to enhance local production capabilities, minimizing the reliance on out-of-state facilities.
Jason Roethig, senior director of engineering services, explained that the strategic choice for expanding in Richmond was further supported by abundant local wheat production, crucial for Goldfish crackers.
Project Execution
The project, named after the Goldfish mascot, required the implementation of best practices from different Campbell’s divisions and included appointed project leaders and managers for effective coordination. Experts from the Willard plant provided training to the Richmond employees, enhancing operational readiness.
Engineering work for the expansion began in 2022, and its official announcement came in July 2023. The project team increased production speed by integrating advanced technology, such as a new recipe management system that ensures higher quality and consistency of dough.
On-Site Flour Milling
A key component of the expansion was constructing an on-site flour mill in partnership with local milling companies. This facility not only supplies the Richmond plant with fresh flour but has also bolstered sustainability by significantly cutting carbon dioxide emissions associated with transportation. Campbell’s receives half of the mill’s daily output, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality flour.
This development also benefits local wheat farmers, offering them new buyers for their crops and improving market competition.
Construction Challenges
Despite careful planning, the expansion faced challenges, including continuing production during construction. The team regularly conducted safety walkthroughs to minimize risks of contamination. Harsh weather conditions, including record snowfall, complicated site work but were managed through proactive safety measures.
Finding local contractors was challenging due to increased competition from other regional projects, but Campbell’s engaged trusted partners from previous projects to meet their timeline.
Looking Ahead
The new Goldfish production line is running at full capacity, having achieved all startup success criteria without any safety incidents. Campbell’s plans to add 85 more jobs by 2027, indicating a commitment to community and expansion. While no immediate expansion is planned, the facility is designed to accommodate future growth.
The expansion not only enhances Campbell’s operational efficiency but also sets the groundwork for future projects, emphasizing a commitment to safety and best practices. Hernandez expressed confidence in the Richmond team’s capabilities to adapt and excel in any future endeavors.
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