Japanese probiotic beverage giant, Yakult Honsha Co., is set to significantly expand its US presence with a $305 million investment in a new production facility northwest of Atlanta, Georgia. The Cartersville plant, slated to begin operations in 2026, is projected to create approximately 90 jobs and bolster the company's capacity to meet growing demand for its fermented milk drink, Yakult.

This expansion marks a major step forward for the company, which currently operates a single US factory in Fountain Valley, California, established in 2014. While the California plant produces nearly a million bottles daily, the Georgia facility is anticipated to be even larger, serving as the primary supplier for the eastern and central United States. Yakult USA CEO Yuraka Misumi emphasized the strategic importance of the Cartersville location for supporting the company's ongoing nationwide expansion efforts.

The investment underscores Yakult's commitment to the American market, where the company began nationwide sales in 2019. The company’s flagship product, Yakult, is marketed as a digestive health aid and is sold in 40 countries globally. This new plant will enable Yakult to better serve its growing customer base in the US.

The project is also a boon for Georgia's economy. Beyond job creation, the state stands to benefit from substantial tax revenue. Yakult could be eligible for up to $560,000 in state income tax credits over five years, provided employees earn a minimum of $31,300 annually. Further incentives, including potential property tax breaks from Cartersville and Bartow County, could also sweeten the deal. This investment further solidifies Georgia's strong relationship with Japanese businesses, with over 460 Japanese facilities already employing nearly 50,000 Georgians. In 2022 alone, trade between Georgia and Japan exceeded $9.7 billion, making Japan the state's sixth-largest trading partner.