JONESBORO, Ark. — February 19, 2026 — InnovAsian Cuisine Enterprises Inc., a subsidiary of Japan-based Nichirei Foods Inc., announced plans to construct a 175,000-square-foot frozen food manufacturing facility in Jonesboro, Arkansas, a project expected to create approximately 200 new jobs and further strengthen Northeast Arkansas’ growing food manufacturing sector.
The new state-of-the-art facility will be located in Craighead Technology Park, a 2,100-acre industrial development that continues to attract advanced manufacturing and food production investment. The project represents a significant expansion of InnovAsian’s U.S. operations and will increase production capacity for the company’s rapidly growing multi-serve entrée product line.
Widely recognized in grocery freezer aisles nationwide, InnovAsian offers a range of Asian-inspired meals, including entrées, rice dishes, appetizers, sides, and single-serve options designed to bring restaurant-quality flavors to home kitchens.
“This new facility investment underscores InnovAsian’s commitment to growth and marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of our brand,” said Joe Kent, President and CEO of InnovAsian. “Our Jonesboro facility will enable us to meet increasing demand for high-quality Asian cuisine while creating meaningful employment opportunities in the community. We appreciate the strong partnership with Jonesboro Unlimited, the State of Arkansas, and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission as we expand our presence in North America.”
Nichirei Foods plans to make a capital contribution of approximately $105 million in 2026 to initiate construction and launch operations. Company leaders selected Arkansas following a competitive multi-state search, citing workforce availability, speed-to-market advantages, and strong state and local collaboration as key decision factors.
Strengthening Arkansas’ Food Manufacturing Economy
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders emphasized the project’s alignment with the state’s agricultural and manufacturing strengths.
“Arkansas is proud to be a place where farm products are transformed into value-added food products for families across America,” Sanders said. “This investment brings approximately 200 new jobs to Jonesboro, strengthens our economy, and creates another market opportunity for Arkansas agriculture.”
State officials played a direct role in securing the investment, meeting with Nichirei Foods executives in Tokyo in 2025 to highlight Arkansas’ business climate and competitive advantages.
“Arkansas is excited to welcome InnovAsian to Jonesboro,” said Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC). “This project is an excellent fit for the region’s strong food manufacturing ecosystem and represents a major economic development win for the community.”
Local leaders also noted the city’s longstanding industry base as a key factor in attracting the company.
“Jonesboro has a long history of supporting food manufacturing, and we are proud InnovAsian recognized our competitive advantages,” said Mark Young, President of Jonesboro Unlimited. “This investment reinforces our position as a premier location for food production and advanced manufacturing.”
Supporting Continued U.S. Market Growth
The new facility will support InnovAsian’s continued expansion in the North American market, enabling the company to scale production while improving supply chain efficiency and meeting growing consumer demand for convenient, high-quality frozen meals.
About InnovAsian Cuisine Enterprises Inc.
InnovAsian, a subsidiary of Nichirei Foods Inc., produces frozen Asian-inspired meals, appetizers, and side dishes designed for convenient preparation and flavorful dining experiences. Learn more at EatInnovAsian.com.
About the Arkansas Economic Development Commission
The Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), a division of the Arkansas Department of Commerce, works with businesses and communities statewide to foster economic growth and expand opportunity. Learn more at ArkansasEDC.com.
Media Contact:
Tyler Hale
Arkansas Economic Development Commission
Tyler.Hale@ArkansasEDC.com
Vendor/Supplier Inquiries:
https://eatinnovasian.com/contact
