Conagra Brands Inc. is moving forward with a major investment to strengthen its presence in Mexico, announcing plans to expand and upgrade its manufacturing facility in Irapuato, located northwest of Mexico City.
The company’s Mexican division will invest approximately 550 million pesos (around $31.9 million) into the project. This initiative is focused on expanding production capacity, upgrading packaging technologies, and improving operational efficiency. The move comes as part of a broader strategy to respond to increasing consumer demand and evolving market trends across Mexico.
The Irapuato facility plays a central role in Conagra’s operations in the country. Situated in the Bajío region—known for its strong agricultural base—it benefits from close access to key raw materials such as corn, potatoes, and carrots. This strategic location has helped the plant become a critical production hub, contributing nearly 94% of Conagra’s total sales volume in Mexico. The facility manufactures products for well-known brands like ACT II, Del Monte, and Hunt’s.
According to Alberto Cavia, CEO of Conagra Brands Mexico, the investment reflects the company’s long-term confidence in the Mexican market. He emphasized that expanding the Irapuato plant will not only enhance production capabilities but also support innovation, sustainability, and the overall development of the country’s food sector. The company views Mexico as a key growth market and continues to invest in strengthening its operational footprint.
Originally established in 1962 and later acquired by Conagra in 2000, the Irapuato facility has evolved into a cornerstone of the company’s regional operations. The latest expansion, announced on April 15, forms part of a long-term strategy to reinforce manufacturing capabilities, support more than 800 employees across Mexico, and align with changing consumer preferences.
Beyond operational benefits, the investment is expected to contribute significantly to the economic development of the Bajío region. By strengthening its supply chain and increasing production capacity, Conagra aims to create broader opportunities for local suppliers, farmers, and communities.
Sustainability also remains a key focus of the upgrade. Conagra highlighted that since 2015, the Irapuato plant has treated more than 3.1 million cubic meters of wastewater and successfully recycled or reused over 95% of its waste. These initiatives underline the company’s commitment to environmentally responsible manufacturing and resource efficiency.
Overall, the expansion represents a strategic step for Conagra as it continues to scale its operations in Mexico while balancing growth with sustainability and community development.