News Summary
Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. has inaugurated a new processing facility in Zamora, California, enhancing its operational capacity. Covering 430,000 square feet, the plant aims to support local growers and meet rising pistachio demand, particularly with the projected record harvest in 2025. This initiative not only boosts Setton’s processing capabilities but also reinforces their commitment to sustainability and the local agricultural economy, positioning the company for continued growth in the pistachio market.
Zamora, California – Setton Pistachio Expands Operations with New Processing Plant
Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. has inaugurated a new processing facility in Zamora, Yolo County, California, marking a significant expansion for the nation’s second-largest pistachio grower and processor. The new plant, which has been under construction for the past three years, covers a vast area of 430,000 square feet, with 270,000 square feet currently in use.
The opening of the Zamora processing plant is strategically timed to meet the increasing demand for pistachios, especially as the upcoming 2025 harvest is expected to yield a record-breaking crop. This facility is set to enhance the company’s processing capabilities while maintaining its commitment to sustainable farming practices.
Benefits for Growers and the Local Economy
Located in Northern California, the new plant is positioned to serve local grower partners who manage approximately 14,000 bearing acres of pistachios in the region. The facility’s location will enable growers to reduce travel times and minimize transportation costs, making it a beneficial addition to the local agricultural economy.
The grand opening ceremony held on June 5, 2023, attracted a diverse audience that included growers, vendors, and state representatives, highlighting the importance of community engagement and partnership in the agricultural sector.
Company Growth and Additional Processing Capacity
Setton Pistachio’s expansion is part of a broader strategy that recently included the acquisition of Deer Creek Pistachio, a processing facility located in Terra Bella, California. This acquisition has increased Setton’s hulling, drying, and processing capacity, further boosting its service capabilities. Overall, the company now operates five processing facilities: two in Terra Bella, one in Pixley, one in Ducor, and the newly opened facility in Zamora.
Additionally, expansion efforts at Setton’s Brooklyn facility in Terra Bella are underway, with these developments collectively adding over 100 million pounds of additional processing volume to its operations. This increased capacity is crucial as the demand for pistachios and plant-based snacking options continues to grow.
Commitment to Sustainability
Setton Farms’ Chief Operating Officer emphasized the importance of this expansion in light of current trends in the pistachio industry and the rising popularity of plant-based snacks. The company remains committed to supporting its growers and prioritizing environmental sustainability through successfully increased processing capacity, ensuring a win-win situation for both the business and the ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
With the new Zamora plant set to begin operations in time for the 2025 harvest, Setton Pistachio is well-positioned to take advantage of the anticipated growth in various counties across Northern California including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Placer, Sacramento, and Yolo. As the company continues to expand, it aims to strengthen its role within the pistachio industry while supporting local agriculture and sustainability efforts.
The new facility not only represents a physical augmentation of Setton Pistachio’s operations but also embodies the company’s forward-thinking approach in adapting to market trends and consumer preferences. As the demand for pistachios continues to rise, Setton Pistachio is poised to play a pivotal role in meeting that demand while advocating for sustainable agricultural practices.
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