Unilever, one of the world’s largest consumer goods companies, announced today that it will expand its facility in Jefferson City, investing $25 million in a new warehouse on the current property. The company’s expansion will enhance its current warehouse operations to help optimize its North American logistics network.
“We’re thrilled to see Unilever continuing to grow right here in Missouri’s capital city,” said Governor Mike Parson. “Our state’s low costs, superior infrastructure, and skilled workforce continue to set us apart as a prime business location for world-class employers. We look forward to the benefits that Unilever’s ongoing success will provide for Missourians in the Jefferson City area as it continues to invest in the community.”
Unilever’s Jefferson City location, in operation since 1966, employs more than 400 workers and manufactures liquid hair and body care products that include well-known brands such as Dove, Nexxus, TRESemmé, and Vaseline. As part of its expansion, the company will add an automated warehouse solution that is integrated with its factory to support shipments and repack operations. The building project is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2024 and will be completed by the end of 2025.
“We are proud to have the opportunity to continue investing in Jefferson City, which is the long-time home of an important manufacturing facility for our business as we continue exploring growth opportunities in the U.S.,” said Michael Whelan, Head of Unilever’s Jefferson City Factory. “The amazing team members at our Jefferson City location help produce products for key brands for Unilever, and we’re thrilled to continue our legacy of excellence with this new investment.”
“Unilever is a leading Jefferson City employer and longtime community partner that we’re excited to see expanding,” said Michelle Hataway, Acting Director of the Department of Economic Development. “We’re grateful for the support of our partners that has ensured this company is continuing to grow and create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.”
What others are saying
“We welcome Unilever’s expansion in Jefferson City as a testament to our city’s appeal for sustainable and innovative business practices,” said Jefferson City Mayor Ron Fitzwater. “This partnership reinforces our commitment to economic development, job creation and a great future for our community.”
“We’re excited Unilever selected Jefferson City for this significant investment,” said Luke Holtschneider, President/CEO of the Jefferson City Regional Economic Partnership. “Unilever is a pillar in our community, with a long and rich history, and we are proud to be a partner on this project.”
About Unilever in North America
Unilever is one of the world’s leading suppliers of Beauty & Wellbeing, Personal Care, Home Care, Nutrition and Ice Cream products, with sales in over 190 countries and products used by 3.4 billion people every day. The company has 127,000 employees and generated sales of €60.1 billion in 2022.
Unilever’s vision is to be the global leader in sustainable business and to demonstrate how its purpose-led, future-fit business model drives superior performance. The company has a long tradition of being a progressive, responsible business.
The Unilever Compass, the company’s global sustainable business strategy, is set out to help it deliver superior performance and drive sustainable and responsible growth, while aiming to improve the health of the planet; improve people's health, confidence and wellbeing; and contribute to a fairer and more socially inclusive world.
Unilever’s leading brands in North America include Dove, Hellmann’s, Vaseline, Degree, Axe, TRESemmé, Knorr, Magnum, Ben & Jerry’s, Nutrafol, Liquid I.V., Paula’s Choice, and Dermalogica.
For more information on Unilever U.S. and its brands visit unileverusa.com.
For more information on Unilever Canada and its brands visit unilever.ca.
About the Missouri Department of Economic Development
The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.
For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.