Kerry Ingredients & Flavours, an international food manufacturer with plans to hire more than 90 new full-time employees in Savannah, has signed a job-training agreement with Georgia Quick Start that will take place on the campus of Savannah Technical College.
Kerry employees manufacture aseptically processed food and beverage products, including tea, nutritional beverages and broth in its plant in the SPA Business Park off U.S. 80.
In aseptic processing, foods and beverages are packaged in a sterilized environment. The process uses less energy, makes for a longer shelf-life than other packaging options, such as canning or plastic bottling, and helps the food retain more nutrients and flavor.
“Helping global businesses put down roots and thrive in Georgia is always a pleasure for us,” said Jackie Rohosky, Technical College System of Georgia assistant commissioner for economic development programs and head of Quick Start.
“We’re honored to help Kerry continue bringing good jobs to Georgians.”
Quick Start is developing job-specific training in Kerry’s high-tech processes including safety operations, beverage blending, food and beverage product processing and aseptic packaging.
Savannah Tech, a third partner in the training agreement, will work with Kerry in the long term, to support ongoing learning and development needs.
“This partnership is about equipping local community members with viable employment and cutting-edge, competitive job skills,” says Tom Bailey, Kerry vice president of operations.
“Kerry is engaging the greater Savannah community in the growth of our business, and Quick Start provides the learning and development expertise needed to meet and sustain this growth.”
Kerry has 48 manufacturing facilities across the United States, including those in Savannah and Calhoun, Ga.