Nissin Foods, a global leader in producing premium, instant ramen products, announced plans to expand its U.S. footprint by establishing new operations in Greenville County, S.C., to meet what officials said is surging demand from customers. The company’s planned $228 million investment will create over 300 new jobs, the officials said.

“Nissin Foods has seen sustained sales growth year-over-year, especially over the last five years, driven by unprecedented demand for our products,” said Nissin Foods President and CEO Michael Price.  “As we developed the company’s expansion plans, we determined early on that Greenville, South Carolina was the ideal location for our newest manufacturing facility.”

Headquartered in Tokyo, Nissin Foods was established in 1958 in Japan by Momofuku Ando, who invented the first instant ramen noodle inspired by his belief that "peace will come to the world when there is enough food."

In 1972, Nissin Foods USA opened its first plant in Gardena, Calif. 

“Greenville is among the fastest growing manufacturing cities in the country, and many other top brands are produced there,” added Price. “In addition to being a significant milestone in Nissin’s history, this investment will allow us to optimize production capabilities, grow the organization, bring jobs to the community and continue to fortify our innovation pipeline.”

Launched in 1971 in Japan, Cup Noodles debuted in the U.S. in 1973, revolutionizing the food industry by creating a product that could package, prepare, and serve noodles all in one.

“Congratulations to Nissin Foods and Greenville County on bringing over 300 new jobs to South Carolina,” said South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster. “This collaboration provides additional opportunities for Nissin Foods to serve its worldwide customer base while contributing to the Greenville community.”

Sales increased 21 percent in the first quarter of fiscal 2023, up from the same period in 2022 and the fourth consecutive quarter of high double-digit sales growth for Nissin Foods, according to Food Business News.

“This announcement exemplifies the international reach of South Carolina’s pro-business reputation. Nissin Foods is primed for success in Greenville County as the strong workforce and abundant community support give the company an ideal environment to keep pace with growth and demand,” said Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III.

With a growing brand portfolio that includes Cup Noodles, Top Ramen, Top Ramen Bowl, Cup Noodles Stir Fry, Chow Mein, Hot & Spicy Bowl and Fire Wok, officials say the company corporate philosophy embraces a commitment to taste, convenience, and quality.

A leading provider of instant ramen noodles, the new Greenville County operation will help the company enhance continued product development and innovation while meeting the surging consumer demand, officials said. Products to be made at the new Greenville County facility weren’t identified by company officials.

Nissin Foods USA, recently announced that Cup Noodles will introduce a new paper cup design in early 2024, replacing the current polystyrene cup. A historic change for the brand since its 1973 U.S. introduction, the updated packaging for the on-the-go cup is now microwavable.

The company has announced plans to purchase a 640,640-square-foot building at 1170 Bracken Road in Piedmont for its new Greenville County manufacturing facility. Nissin Foods also has existing manufacturing facilities in Lancaster, Pa., and Gardena, Calif.

Operations are expected to be online in August 2025. Those interested in joining the Nissin Foods team should go to the company’s careers page.

The state’s Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. 

The council also awarded a $250,000 Set-Aside grant to Greenville County to assist with the cost of building improvements.