GLENVIEW – Thanks to State Senator Julie Morrison’s steadfast advocacy to prioritize job creation and economic development, UPSIDE Foods – a nationwide business – is coming to Glenview.
“I enthusiastically welcome this new facility, which is a significant investment to our community. It underscores our commitment to technology, innovation and business development,” said State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “UPSIDE Foods’ decision to open a facility in Glenview highlights the area’s strategic location for its pro-innovation business environment and skilled workforce.”
The 175,000 square foot facility, based in Glenview, will start by producing ground cultivated chicken products, with plans to expand to other species and whole-textured formats in the future. Upon its opening, 75 jobs will be created across warehousing, logistics, bioprocessing, food production, and other commercial functions.
Morrison was instrumental in bringing UPSIDE Foods to Glenview alongside Governor JB Pritzker. The company said it was drawn by the region's esteemed legacy in meat production, a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability, and strategic geographical advantages.
Located at major transportation crossroads, the facility will serve as an ideal hub for large-scale
production, distribution, and sale of cultivated meat products. Furthermore, UPSIDE was attracted to the area for its talented workforce and vibrant innovation landscape.
“On behalf of the State of Illinois, we are excited to welcome UPSIDE Foods to the Land of Lincoln and are committed to supporting their growth in the cultivated meat industry," said Governor Pritzker. “We are also proud to share that as of last week, UPSIDE Foods became the world's first FDA-approved cell-cultivated meat manufacturer and commercial seller. Here in Illinois, we are a hub for tech and innovation, thanks to our talented workforce and prime location in the heart of the Midwest. This new facility is a significant investment in our communities – creating new good-paying jobs while advancing our ambitious clean energy goals to create a more sustainable future.”
The Glenview-based facility will be UPSIDE’s first large-scale commercial production factory.