Dive Brief:
- Montreal-based baked goods maker Bridor is investing nearly $220 million over the next five years to build an artisan bread and Viennese-style pastry facility in the greater Salt Lake City area, according to a May 17 press release.
- The facility will initially create over 150 jobs and expand to 300 long-term positions, including operators, bakers, engineers and more.
- Construction of the new facility will start in fall 2024 with production expected for the beginning of January in 2026.
Dive Insight:
The investment aims to expand the presence of French bakery products in the U.S., according to the release.
"This factory will enable Bridor to meet the specific needs of the American market by having a production site close to its regional customers," CEO of Bridor in North America Eric de Saint Lager said in a statement.
Bridor is owned by France-based restaurant conglomerate Le Duff Group, which also owns chains such as Brioche Dorée, Del Arte and Fournil de Pierre, and accounts for roughly 45% of the company’s revenue.
This will be Bridor's fifth plant in North America, with the others located in New Jersey, Connecticut and two in Canada.
In 2019, the company expanded its Vineland, New Jersey, plant by 47,000 square feet to add a new pastry line, allowing it to double the pastry production capacity. Bridor also expanded its Boucherville, Canada, plant for $170 million at the same time.
Starting in 2025, Bridor will provide employees with training through its academy on how to make premium artisanal products on an industrial scale, according to the release.
The Viennese-style pastry maker has been slowly growing its global presence since 1984 when it opened its doors in Montreal. In 2009, Bridor acquired French bread maker Au Pain Doré to expand its business.
