Setton Pistachio Opens New Processing Facility in Zamora, CA

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The new Setton Pistachio processing facility in Zamora, California, enhancing local operations.

News Summary

Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. has launched its new processing facility in Zamora, Yolo County, aimed at expanding production capacity to meet rising pistachio demand. Covering 430,000 square feet, the facility will support local growers and enhance operational efficiency. The grand opening on June 5, 2023, marks a major milestone as Setton strengthens its position in the pistachio industry while promoting sustainability.

California – Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc., the second-largest pistachio grower and processor in the United States, has commenced operations at a new processing facility in Zamora, Yolo County. This facility, located north of Sacramento, represents a significant expansion in Setton’s operational capacity, aiming to meet the increasing demand for pistachios.

The Zamora processing plant, which has been under construction for the past three years, covers an expansive 430,000 square feet, with 270,000 square feet currently ready for use. It is anticipated to be fully operational by the 2025 harvest, which is expected to yield record-breaking crops. This growth aligns with the broader trend of increasing demand for pistachios, largely attributed to their popularity as a plant-based snack.

Strategically located in Northern California, where there are approximately 14,000 bearing acres of pistachios, the Zamora facility is poised to support local growers in several counties including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Placer, Sacramento, and Yolo. One of the key advantages of this facility is the reduction in travel times and transportation costs for grower partners, enhancing their operational efficiency.

The official grand opening of the Zamora facility took place on June 5, 2023, bringing together growers, vendors, and state representatives to celebrate this major development. The new plant is one of several expansions currently being undertaken by Setton, which recently acquired Deer Creek Pistachio in Terra Bella, further boosting its hulling, drying, and processing capabilities.

With the addition of the Zamora facility, Setton now operates a total of five processing plants: two in Terra Bella, one in Pixley, one in Ducor, and the new location in Zamora. Recent expansions at Setton’s Brooklyn facility have also contributed to increased processing capacity. Collectively, these expansions are anticipated to add over 100 million pounds of additional processing volume, reflecting the company’s strategy of anticipating future growth in the pistachio market.

Mia Cohen, Chief Operating Officer of Setton Farms, highlighted that the company’s expansion is motivated by positive industry trends and the growing inclination towards plant-based snacks. Additionally, Setton is committed to both enhancing distribution capabilities and engaging in environmentally sustainable practices.

Setton’s investment in its processing infrastructure not only aims to cater to the growing consumer demand for pistachios but also to reinforce its support for local growers while promoting sustainability in its operations. The new facility stands as a testament to Setton’s role in the evolving landscape of the pistachio industry in California.

As the industry continues to grow, Setton’s latest expansion signifies a concerted effort to adapt to market changes, ensuring that they remain a pivotal player in the pistachio sector.