CHICAGO – Peer Foods Group Inc. announced plans for $5.5 million expansion into Hancock County, Indiana, according to news reports.

The expansion cost includes equipping a 33,000 sq. ft. plant in Cumberland. The facility, which is expected to be open by summer, will boost the company's sausage and hot dog production capacity. The company expects to add 80 jobs.

In addition to the company's investment, the Indiana Economic Development Corp. will provide the company up to $400,000 in performance-based tax credits. Also, Hancock County has approved additional tax abatements.

Peer Foods was founded in Chicago in 1867, according to the company's website. The company acquired Mariah Foods, Inc. in 1996, and most recently acquired Indiana-based Emge Foods, LLC, a meat company specializing in retail-branded hams, bacon, hot dogs, sausage and other processed meats.