Agristo Launches Major U.S. Expansion with Grand Forks Potato Plant

Agristo, a leading Belgian family owned producer of premium frozen potato products has officially begun site preparation for its first U.S. processing facility, a USD 450 million investment, on a 360-acre plot in Grand Forks, North Dakota. This significant milestone marks the start of a transformative project set to bring a wide range of high quality frozen potato products to the North American retail market.

Kristof Wallays, Agristo Chief of Global Expansion, Innovation and Sustainability:

"The culture and the values of the Red River Valley were important factors in choosing the Grand Forks site, noting the can-do attitude and the expertise we felt here."

Grand Forks Mayor Brandon Bochenski models an Agristo jersey presented by Kristof Wallays, Agristo’s chief of global expansion, innovation and sustainability, during the “A Taste of Belgium” event at Town Square, celebrating the signing of a USD 450 million potato processing plant development agreement in Grand Forks.

The Grand Forks facility will produce an array of frozen offerings, including French fries, waffle fries, hashbrowns, tater tots and other potato specialties, catering to growing consumer demand for premium frozen foods.

To support the plant’s operations at full capacity, Agristo will require over 20,000 acres of potatoes. Local seed growers are already scaling up production of the company’s preferred potato varieties, with the fall 2027 crop earmarked to supply the facility for its planned opening in January 2028.

A ceremonial groundbreaking is scheduled for April 2026, signaling the transition to full scale construction. Agristo’s investment in Grand Forks reflects its global reputation for innovation and sustainability, built on decades of expertise in producing frozen potato products for over 80 countries. The new facility will leverage the renowned Red River Valley potato region to deliver top tier products while strengthening local economic ties.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The Grand Forks facility is projected to generate over 200 jobs upon launch, scaling up to more than 300 positions at full production. These roles will span production, maintenance, logistics, quality control and management, reflecting Agristo’s family like culture that prioritizes employee growth and well-being.

A ceremonial groundbreaking is scheduled for April 2026, signaling the transition to full scale construction. Agristo’s investment in Grand Forks, supported by local leaders like Mayor Brandon Bochenski and state officials, reflects its global reputation for innovation and sustainability, built on decades of expertise in producing frozen potato products for over 80 countries.

The new facility will leverage the renowned Red River Valley potato region to deliver top tier products while strengthening local economic ties, incorporating sustainable practices like energy efficient processing and waste reduction.