Liquid fertilizer manufacturer Vicksburg Plant Food Thursday announced a $20 million expansion for its Vicksburg plant that will create 20 new jobs.

Vicksburg Plant Food CEO Patrick Smith said the company is expanding at its existing location to house two new tanks to support its manufacturing and distribution operations.

Vicksburg Plant Food’s growth accommodates an increase in consumer demand, as well as a new contract.

“Our company is excited to grow in Mississippi and Vicksburg. We find in Vicksburg a set of unique location advantages that are of great importance as we continue to grow our market share and expand our business,” Smith said.

Vicksburg Plant Food has been in operation in Vicksburg since 1989. The company distributes its products across Mississippi, Louisiana and most states along the inland waterway systems of the United States.

“Vicksburg has experienced significant economic growth in recent years, and Vicksburg Plant Food’s expansion continues that momentum,” Gov. Phil Bryant said. “I commend the company for choosing to grow in the River City and bring new job opportunities to the people of Warren County.”

Mayor George Flaggs Jr. said Vicksburg Plant Food’s announcement was a good way to start the year for the city and Warren County.

“The city stepped up to the plate early on and made sure that Vicksburg Plant Food could have predictability regarding timetables and permit procedures. I thank the MDA and Gov. Bryant for their continued confidence in our community and our economic development efforts.”

Smith said he and his staff worked with the Mississippi Development Authority, Warren County Economic Development Partnership and the city of Vicksburg, adding the agencies were “proactive and agile in helping us navigate state and local programs.”

The MDA is providing assistance for site development.

“Agribusiness and manufacturing are two of Mississippi’s strongest economic drivers,” said MDA Executive Director Glenn McCullough Jr.

“Vicksburg Plant Foods expansion further strengthens both sectors while demonstrating Mississippi is a place where companies can achieve their goals as they capitalize on growth opportunities.

“The partnership of the Warren County Port Commission, the chamber of commerce, economic development foundation, Vicksburg and Warren County were instrumental in bringing this economic development win to the city of Vicksburg.” Margaret Gilmer, port commission chairman, said the port commission, which is a member of the partnership, is proud to see results from the existing industry programs the partnership has put in place.

“In Vicksburg today, we can celebrate and support job creation from both new and existing industries,” she said. “We are glad that through the work of The Partnership companies of all sizes can find support from our economic development agencies as they continue to grow in our community.”