McCain Foods is expanding its vegetable processing operations in Hastings following the closure of a plant in Tasmania.
The $19 million investment will see the plant upgraded with new equipment, freezers and a more efficient packing line, as well as new bean-processing equipment.
Agricultural director Tony Ford says all of the company's bean production will now be done in Hastings.
At about 8000 tonnes per year, it will double the amount the beans currently processed in New Zealand.
"Traditionally all bean processing has been done in Tasmania, so it is a new crop for Hawke's Bay," said Mr Ford.
He said the upgrade at the Hastings plant should be finished by November, in time for this year's pea harvest.
However, there been a slow start to sowing peas in Hawke's Bay because it's been so wet.
