Bauducco Foods, a leading global baked goods manufacturer, has officially started construction on its new state-of-the-art facility in Zephyrhills, Florida. The $200 million investment marks a significant milestone for the company, known for producing over 400,000 tons of baked goods annually, including its signature panettone, wafers, and biscuits.

Located on 72 acres in Zephyrhills, the new facility is expected to provide an expanded production and distribution hub for Bauducco’s products in the U.S. The project will unfold in three phases, with the first phase projected to be operational by mid-2026. The second phase is expected to be completed by 2028, and the third by 2030. By the time the full facility is up and running, approximately 600 new jobs are expected to be created in the Tampa Bay area, with Phase One alone contributing 120 full-time positions.

“We are thrilled to begin the construction of our new facility in Zephyrhills, which will not only expand our production capabilities but also create hundreds of new jobs in the local community,” said a Bauducco spokesperson. “This investment is crucial in supporting our growth and our commitment to delivering the highest quality baked goods to U.S. consumers.”

The company anticipates the advanced technology planned for the new plant will not only streamline current production but also provide the flexibility to introduce new products to the market. Bauducco Foods believes that the strategic location and cutting-edge facility will position the company for future growth in the U.S. market.

Founded in 1952 by Italian immigrant Carlo Bauducco in São Paulo, Brazil, the company has a rich history in the baked goods industry. Bauducco Foods has been operating in the U.S. for over two decades and has become a household name, known for products like panettone, cookies, and wafers. Today, the company is led by the third generation of the Bauducco family.

Bauducco’s Zephyrhills facility represents a key part of the company’s broader expansion strategy in North America, enabling them to meet the growing demand for their products in the region. The plant’s location in Florida, a strategic hub for distribution, is expected to further strengthen the company’s footprint in the U.S.

The addition of this new facility also aligns with Bauducco's long-term goals of increasing its market share and enhancing its distribution network, ensuring that its beloved products reach even more consumers across the country. With advanced technologies and an emphasis on sustainability and efficiency, the Zephyrhills plant is poised to play a key role in Bauducco Foods’ continued success.

As Bauducco Foods continues to grow, its commitment to innovation, quality, and community remains at the forefront of its operations. The new facility in Zephyrhills is just the latest example of how the company is working to shape the future of the baked goods industry.

Bauducco Foods’ investment in Florida not only underscores its business growth but also highlights its ongoing commitment to creating job opportunities, fostering economic development, and offering quality products that bring joy to families everywhere.

Originally reported by Andy Hanacek in Food Processing.