OVERLAND PARK, KAN. — Kansas Dairy Ingredients (KDI) Cheese Co., a manufacturer and marketer of ultrafiltered concentrated milk products, has announced plans to invest $45 million to expand its operations in southwest Kansas.

Expansion of the facility in Hugoton, Kan., will include investments to produce American-style, Italian-style, Hispanic-style cheese and European-style cheese and butter. KDI Cheese Co. said the expansion will be “environmentally conscious,” with the company committed to increased investment in water reclamation and eco-friendly construction practices.

KDI Cheese Co. opened the Hugoton dairy plant in 2013. According to the company, a major factor in the decision to expand in Hugoton was the high-quality local milk supply.

“We are very excited to announce our expansion in Kansas and appreciate the collaboration of our local Hugoton leadership for their continued support,” said Tim Gomez, chief executive officer of KDI Cheese Company. “The state of Kansas, our industry partners and KDI team associates made this possible. The local dairy community has invested greatly into Kansas for many years, and they have supported KDI since day one. We now have an opportunity to give that support back by providing a secure, long-term home for their milk. Our investment of $45 million and creation of 40 new jobs in Hugoton is exciting for all of us. We started construction in December of 2020 and are on target to receive milk in October of 2021. We have already added several positions to facilitate our training, thus minimizing the commissioning time once construction is complete.”

Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said western Kansas has been booming with new agribusiness and food manufacturing investments.

“KDI is seizing an incredible opportunity — there’s never been a better time to grow in Kansas,” Mr. Toland said. “We’re so grateful for their decision to invest even more in Hugoton and in our state, and we will continue to be the strongest possible partner to exceptional agribusinesses like KDI.”