Oberto Announces Plan to Enhance Operating Efficiencies

KENT, Wash., Jan. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Oberto Brands, the nation's leading all-natural jerky snacks company, today announced plans to improve its operating efficiency by expanding capacity at its Kent, Washington facility through the enhancement of existing lines and installation of new jerky-making equipment, a move that will create more jobs in Washington over the coming years. As part of this process, the company will sell its facility in Albany, Oregon, and will discontinue its manufacturing operations in Nashville, Tennessee by April 2016.

"While it is always difficult to consolidate manufacturing facilities, we are thrilled to be expanding our capabilities in Kent," explained Jason Blake, Sr. V.P. of Operations for Oberto.  "With these changes, we will dedicate more resources to quality improvements and technology upgrades. Additionally, having all manufacturing operations under the same roof as our R&D lab will lead to increased innovation and business growth."

As consumer demand for high protein and low fat options increase, the beef jerky market continues to be a high growth category. Oberto has reached record sales and market share levels in recent years as a result of its unwavering commitment to product quality and innovation. In addition to marketing the Oberto and Pacific Gold brands, Oberto is also the country's leader in private label jerky manufacturing, meeting the needs of major national retailers.

"Unlike many of our competitors, all of Oberto's products are proudly manufactured in the U.S., requiring us to continually look for efficiency opportunities to help mitigate fluctuating costs," explained Tom Hernquist, Oberto President & CEO.

"While we are excited about the new opportunities ahead, a decision like this is never easy. I want to emphasize our appreciation for the support and dedication our Nashville employees and the community have shown since we began operations there. I promise we will do everything to ensure a smooth transition."

Eighty-two employees will be impacted by the decision to discontinue operations in Nashville. Oberto is actively providing transition assistance to affected employees.

ABOUT OBERTO  
Family owned Oberto Brands is the nation's leading all-natural jerky snacks company founded by Constantino Oberto in 1918. Upon his passing, Art Oberto took over the company at the age of 16 and grew it substantially with the help of many mentors, valued employees, and satisfied customers. The company's brands, including Oberto All-Natural Jerky, "Oh Boy" Oberto Classics, Pacific Gold, and Lowrey's, can be found in all retail channels and online at www.oberto.com. 

SOURCE Oberto Brands