InnovAsian Cuisine Enterprises Inc. is set to open a cutting-edge frozen food manufacturing facility in Jonesboro, Arkansas. This move is expected to create around 200 new jobs, which will invigorate the local economy.
InnovAsian is known for its delicious Asian dishes found in grocery store freezer aisles across the country. Their products include family favorites like multi-serve entrées, rice, sides, and single-serve meals. The new facility aims to boost production of their popular multi-serve entrée line, meeting the growing demand in the U.S. market.
Joe Kent, President and CEO of InnovAsian, expressed, “This investment signals our commitment to growth and a key milestone for Nichirei’s strategy in North America. We’re excited to bring more quality Asian cuisine to families while creating meaningful jobs in the community.”
The new facility will span 175,000 square feet and will be located in Craighead Technology Park, an expansive 2,100-acre industrial area. InnovAsian chose Arkansas after a thorough search, citing quick access to the market, a skilled workforce, and strong local support as deciding factors. Nichirei is expected to invest around $105 million to kickstart this project in 2026.
Governor Sarah Sanders highlighted the importance of this development, stating, “With 200 new jobs in Jonesboro, this investment not only boosts our economy but also creates opportunities for local agriculture.” According to recent data from the Arkansas Department of Commerce, food manufacturing significantly contributes to the state’s economy, making up a large portion of its agricultural market.
The partnership was solidified in 2025 when leaders from the Arkansas Department of Commerce and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission met with Nichirei Foods executives in Tokyo to showcase the advantages of setting up in Arkansas.
Clint O’Neal, director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, applauded the new venture, saying, “InnovAsian is a key player in frozen foods, and this project aligns perfectly with what Jonesboro has to offer.” Mark Young, President of Jonesboro Unlimited, added, “With our rich history in food manufacturing, we’re thrilled that InnovAsian has recognized our advantages and decided to join our community.”
The rise of frozen foods has been notable; according to a recent market report, the global frozen food market is projected to grow by 4.3% annually over the next five years. This trend highlights the increasing demand for convenient meal options, and InnovAsian is poised to capitalize on this growth.
In a world moving towards faster meal solutions, this facility not only represents a significant investment in Arkansas but also caters to the evolving tastes of American families.
For more insights on the growth of the frozen food industry, check out market analyses on industry websites like Statista and Food Business News.
