SANY Nutrition Group Opens Manufacturing Plant in Jonesboro

Located at 9401 E. Highland Drive in the former Butterball facility, which closed in February 2025, the plant represents an investment of over $30 million. SANY Nutrition Group specializes in high-protein, low-sugar, plant-based snacks, including sports nutrition bars, frozen snacks, pastries, and pet treats. The facility has already hired around 75 employees, with plans to recruit 35 more in a campaign starting in November, according to Angela Pernsteiner, founder and investor of the company.

Pernsteiner noted the appeal of the region attracted skilled workers, including some from out of state, drawn by the company’s vision of speed, flexibility, and corporate professionalism. The company announced in September a partnership with Arkansas State University to create Red Wolves-themed protein bars, with proceeds benefiting the university's Student Emergency Fund, which supports students facing financial hardships. Dr. Erika Krennerich Chudy, vice chancellor for university advancement at A-State, emphasized the meaningful impact such partnerships can have on the community.

The new plant is situated in Craighead Industrial Park, an area that has recently dealt with layoffs and closures, including those at the Delta Peanut plant and TrinityRail. Pernsteiner stated that SANY’s opening allows for local hiring, and highlighted the region’s robust agricultural industry and favorable business climate as reasons for the company’s location choice.

The facility is expected to produce up to 500 million protein bars and bites annually. It will also expand to support a long-term growth strategy encompassing product development, branding, ingredient sourcing, and quality assurance. Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver expressed optimism for the future, describing the project as a masterpiece and looking forward to its contributions to the community.