Contract manufacturer Hearthside Food Solutions is launching a $13.6 million expansion project at its Michigan City, IN production plant to increase production of crackers, the Economic Development Corporation of Michigan City, IN (EDCMC) recently announced.

“Our production line allows us to position our company in an even stronger spot within our industry while providing new jobs for Michigan City community members,” plant manager Bob Wojcik said in a release.

The expansion effort is expected to create 50 new jobs at the facility.

“Hearthside has continued to build on its base here in Michigan City as well as evolve to meet industry needs and flourish as a food contract manufacturer,” EDCMC Executive Director Clarence Hulse said in a statementposted to the organization’s Facebook page. “It is always a special opportunity to work with existing businesses that are progressing to new levels in our region.”

Based in Downers Grove, IL, Hearthside Food Solutions contract manufactures a wide range of food products including crackers, granola and granola bars, cereal, frozen breakfast sandwiches, fresh salads and sandwiches, and cookies.