Concentrated milk products manufacturer Kansas Dairy Ingredients (KDI) has launched a $45 million expansion project at its Hugoton, KS plant and improve the site’s environmental footprint, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly recently announced.

“Due to our talented workforce, central location, and agricultural excellence, Kansas’ reputation as a global leader in the agribusiness and food manufacturing sectors is undeniable,” said Gov. Kelly in a release. “Congratulations to KDI on its expansion into Hugoton – I look forward to watching the company turn our state’s natural advantages into world-class products enjoyed across the globe.”

A number of sustainability-oriented features will be added during the expansion, including water reclamation technology and environmentally friendly construction practices. Once the project is complete, the site will manufacture American-style, Italian-style, Hispanic-style cheese, European-style cheese, and butter.

“The local dairy community has invested greatly into Kansas for many years, and they have supported KDI since day one. We now have an opportunity to give that support back by providing a secure, long-term home for their milk,” KDI CEO Tim Gomez said in a statement. “Our investment of $45 million and creation of 40 new jobs in Hugoton is exciting for all of us.”

KDI started work on the site in December 2020 and the facility is slated to receive milk in October 2021.

“We have already added several positions to facilitate our training, thus minimizing the commissioning time once construction is complete,” said Gomez.

The company said its decision to expand the Hugoton facility is due to the area’s supply of high-quality milk.