The popularity of plant-based products has soared globally over recent years | Photo credit: Oatly

Oatly has announced plans to significantly increase oat milk production in the US with a new production site in Fort Worth, Texas. The 280,000 square-foot facility is expected to produce 150m litres of oat milk annually and create more than 100 jobs. 
 

The new site is third production facility for the oat milk brand in North America, and one of nine facilities the company will open by 2023 around the world. 
 

The announcement is the latest development in Oatly’s international growth. In June 2021, the Swedish brand announced plans to grow its presence in China’s plant-based retail market. In March 2021, the company said it would open a new UK production factory in 2023. 
 

The popularity of plant-based products has soared globally over recent years, as consumers, particularly those under the age of 35, become more health and environmentally conscious. In 2020, Oatly saw its revenues grow 104% year-on-year to exceed $420m. 
 

“Every time someone decides to take their coffee with oat milk or have an Oatgurt for their afternoon snack, we believe they’re making a choice that’s healthier for them and the planet. And more and more people are making those choices every day,” said Mike Messersmith, Oatly President North America.  
 

“We’re excited to break ground on this factory in Fort Worth, which we believe will allow us to meet the growing demand for Oatly’s products and grow our positive impact on the planet,” added Messersmith.  
 

Highlighting Oatly’s success in the global plant-based market, in May 2021 the company made its debut on the Nasdaq with an IPO that valued the brand at around $13bn.