Gov. Jindal Announces $40 Million Plant Expansion

Elmer's Chocolate of Ponchatoula is planning a 70,000 square foot expansion of their production facility. Governor Bobby Jindal and Elmer's CEO Robert Nelson announced the project today. 164 current employees will remain while 10 new jobs with an average salary of $42,500 will be created and 14 indirect jobs will be created. In addition 130 construction jobs will benefit from the project.

The State of Louisiana offered the company a competitive incentive package that includes a performance-based $550,000 Economic Development Award Program forgivable loan to fund equipment purchases and other expenses. Elmer's is expected to utilize Louisiana's Enterprise Zone program.