Puratos is expanding its U.S. headquarters in Pennsauken to add the first plant in the country dedicated entirely to making bakery glaze.

In addition to adding a local presence to the Belgium-based bakery and sweets goods ingredient company, the new facility will bolster operational capabilities as well as serve as a regional hub to support customers, Puratos said in a June 29 press release.

Founded in 1919, Puratos provides innovative ingredients to the bakery, patisserie and chocolate sectors, primarily serving large industrial bakers and retailers, along with foodservice chains, distributors and artisan customers.

After the new plant opens in 2025, Puratos will be the only major bakery glaze manufacturer with a wholly dedicated bakery factory in the U.S, an investment that the company believes underscores its commitment to deliver exceptional service and reliable supply, while supporting ongoing sustainability initiatives.

According to the company, the facility’s state-of-the-art line will run packaging formats to support a range of needs – from bag-in-box options to large-scale industrial packaging – for its signature product, Sunset Glaze, which is a plant-based and allergen-free egg wash alternative known for shine, color and easy cleaning.

Andrew Brimacombe, president of Puratos USA, said in a statement, “This strategic decision to establish a new glaze production site in the United States is in line with Puratos’ strategy to be close to our customers and help them be successful with their businesses.”

He added, “This investment addresses a clear and growing market need for local, sustainable supply of egg wash alternatives in the world’s largest bakery market. We’re excited about the opportunities this expansion brings. As demand for glazed items continues to grow, this investment will further strengthen our ability to support customers across the U.S. with new levels of bakery innovation.”

The factory will also feature eco-friendly design aspects, such as a 100% solar roof, LED lighting and on-site electric vehicle charging.

Since the new facility will be built in the heart of the Pennsauken campus, Puratos will relocate its Northeast distribution center to a newly purchased 194,000-square-foot facility just down the road at 9310 Griffin Morgan Lane.

The announcement comes a few weeks after the company unveiled plans for a new manufacturing and distribution facility in California.