Kraft Heinz, Pittsburgh, Pa., announced plans to invest over $100 million in an expansion of its New Ulm, Minn., cheese processing plant.

The expansion is expected to add 50 jobs at the plant, which already employs nearly 400 people.

“For more than 60 years, our New Ulm facility has provided jobs and growth opportunities for generations of local workers,” says Michael Mullen, senior vice president, corporate and government affairs. “Prep work for the expansion has begun, and we expect our new lines to be up and running by the end of 2017.”

The plant currently processes cheeses for Kraft Deli Deluxe slices, Handi-Snacks, loafs and foodservice products, and will be adding four new lines for the production of Velveeta loafs.

“The addition of new jobs, production lines and economic development opportunities is a win for the city of New Ulm and for Kraft Heinz, as we strive to accelerate our company’s future growth in the marketplace,” adds Mullen.