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Global manufacturer of traditionally brewed soy sauce, Kikkoman, has begun construction of a new production facility in Wisconsin, US.

Kikkoman has been active in Wisconsin since 1973 when it opened its Kikkoman Foods site in Walworth – now said to be the highest-producing soy sauce facility in the Western world.

The company is investing at least $800 million in Wisconsin – $560 million towards the new Jefferson plant and $250 million in expanding its Walworth site, an investment that is expected to create 83 new jobs over the next 12 years.

The new 240,000-square-foot Jefferson site is set on a 100-acre plot at the heart of what will be the 200-acre Food and Beverage Innovation Campus. The plant will be fully integrated and automated using advanced mobile technology. It has been designed for flexibility, speed, efficiency and scalability, with the ability to make smaller or larger batch sizes as needed.

In line with Kikkoman's commitment to sustainability and stewardship, the facility will reduce CO2 emissions by installing energy-efficient equipment, minimising waste and using renewable energy.

At the groundbreaking ceremony, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers confirmed that the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation will award up to $15.5 million in performance-based tax credits to assist the new site.

Yuzaburo Mogi, Kikkoman's CEO and chairman of the board, said: “Today, we are committing to an investment in the community of Jefferson and the state of Wisconsin. Kikkoman believes in Wisconsin, and we are grateful to this great state for believing in us. Our collaboration began half a century ago as a leap of faith, and today, it continues as a promise of continued growth and cultural connection.”

Jefferson’s Mayor, Dale Oppermann, added: "Kikkoman's decision to invest in Jefferson underscores the strength and appeal of our local food and beverage niche. We appreciate the trust Kikkoman has placed in our community and look forward to a long, prosperous partnership."

The new facility will produce soy sauce and soy sauce–related seasonings, including teriyaki sauce, with the first shipments of soy sauce planned for Q3 2026.

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