In 2016, Richelieu Foods chose to expand its national footprint by choosing Wheeling. Richelieu Foods’ Wheeling plant produces private-label pizzas for Kroger, Jewel, Aldi, Whole Foods, and other grocery chains. During Richelieu’s national site selection process, the Village was able to work with the State of Illinois and Cook County, to secure necessary incentives to bring Richelieu Foods to Wheeling and Illinois.
The company, founded in 1862, services customers in both retail and food service in the United States and Canada. It is headquartered in Braintree, Massachusetts, and employs more than 800 employees in Wisconsin, Iowa, and Ohio. The company is currently owned by Freiberger USA Inc., a subsidiary of the German Südzucker AG.
6th
1 Million
Richelieu produces one million pizzas per week on four production lines in Wheeling. As Wheeling’s sixth largest employer, the company employs 270 full-time personnel. In 2022, Richelieu Foods added a pizza-topping line, helping to boost sales. In 2023, Richelieu expanded its labor force by 50%. Now, the company is considering expanding their business footprint once again.
Village of Wheeling Economic Development staff has partnered and worked with Richelieu for workforce development solutions, such as connecting with the local community college apprenticeship program and trades schools. Wheeling’s strategic location and proximity to skilled workforce are key assets to Richelieu’s business growth and expansion.
