Tennessee state officials said Unilever USA, Englewood Cliffs, N.J., plans during the first quarter of 2010 to begin a $100 million expansion at its Covington, Tenn., Slim-Fast diet drink plant. The goal -- confirmed by Unilever to the media -- is to add frozen ice cream and novelty production for Unilever's Breyers, Klondike, Good Humor and Popsicle brands.

State officials said the expansion will involve 32,000 square feet of freezer space create about 275 new jobs, state officials say. The facility currently employs about 163 people.

"This is great news for Unilever and the state of Tennessee," said Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen. "These new jobs are the result of a strong partnership between the state and the local community. I'm pleased Unilever has chosen to further solidify its presence in Tennessee and we look forward to working with them on this ambitious expansion project."