Heinz Lays Plans New S.C. Frozen Meals Plant

H.J. Heinz Co. says it will hire 350 people at a new plant in Florence to make its Weight Watchers Smart Ones and Boston Market frozen meals. Heinz North America President Dave Moran says the new plant is needed because of growth in its frozen meal division. The plant is scheduled to open next summer.

The Pittsburgh-based maker of Heinz ketchup and Ore-Ida potatoes reported higher fourth-quarter earnings last month based largely on increased prices. Also last month, the company unveiled a two-year plan to focus on health and wellness products, including items that are lower in salt, sugar and fat content.