TOPEKA, Kan. — Hill’s Pet Nutrition will expand its Pet Nutrition Center in Shawnee County, Topeka with a $20 million capital investment. The development, called “Project Jingle” by the Joint Economic Development Organization of Topeka and Shawnee County (JEDO), will bring an estimated economic impact of $55.7 million to Shawnee County. The expansion received funding in December 2018 and was officially approved by JEDO Feb. 13, 2019.

“Hill’s Pet Nutrition is excited to make this significant investment in our Pet Nutrition Center.  We believe that it will produce industry-leading advances in pet care and nutrition,” said Gary Semjenow, director of technical services at the Hill’s Pet Nutrition Center.  “We expect to build upon our strong relationship with Topeka and Shawnee County through this expansion that will take us into a bright future.”

The expansion will include a 36,000-sq.-ft. facility and create six new full-time positions with benefits over the next two years, according to notes from JEDO’s Feb. 13 board meeting. Employment and investment incentives totaling up to $196,000 will be provided by GO Topeka, as part of the agreement, under the condition the employment requirements of the deal are met.

“Hill’s has a longstanding history as a wonderful corporate citizen in Topeka, and we’re fortunate they continue to choose to invest in Topeka. This expansion will be a great addition as we actively support the animal health industry and promote our unique position in the Animal Health Corridor,” said Molly Howey, senior vice president of economic development for the Greater Topeka Partnership.

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