Ohio firm Walnut Creek Foods is dedicating $1.7 million to add 17,000 sq ft of space to its existing production and distribution plant in Millersburg, OH, according to a recent JobsOhio release. The project is expected to create 13 new jobs at the facility.

“We operate in the food industry, but we’re really in the people business, and our growth comes from the dedication of our team members and customers. The focus of our growth plan, both organic and through acquisitions, has been to make life better for our customers,” Walnut Creek Foods Chief Operating Officer Julian Coblentz said in a statement.

The expansion is intended to bolster Walnut Creek Foods’ position in the market and to support its out-of-state business.

Walnut Creek Foods manufactures, distributes and retails a wide range of food products, including deli meat, dry grocery items, meat, bulk baking supplies, beverages, bulk foods and bulk candy, according to information on its website. The production facility currently includes USDA, FDA Wet and FDA Dry areas.

Work on the addition is scheduled to start this summer and reach completion before the end of the year. The company will receive a JobsOhio Economic Development Grant to assist with building construction costs.