'El Mexicano' by Marquez Brothers International Dairy Plant expected to come to Tulare

TULARE, Calif. (KFSN) -- Tuesday may be the end of National Dairy Appreciation Month, but a South Valley city known for its dairy industry may still be celebrating with the expected arrival of a new space for a beloved dairy staple.

Economic development efforts and dairy production in Tulare are in full force, year-round.

The community, known for its global dairy contributions, will soon expand its reach.

"Having Marquez and such a great name brand associated with our community is huge for us. I think them coming in and being part of the community with our other dairy processing facilities in town just further strengthens the role that dairy plays in our community," mentions Tulare's City Manager, Marc Mondell.

Marquez Brothers International is widely known for its dairy products, such as Queso Fresco Casero, branded "El Mexicano," a staple in Hispanic dishes.

The Tulare plant will occupy the space of Saputo's old location, on Bardsley Avenue, which has been vacant since the plant moved to a different Tulare location two years ago.

Mondell explains, "Our understanding is they'll do an initial investment and reuse of existing facilities, so they're almost plug and play."

The 24/7 operation is expected to produce "El Mexicano" yogurt.

It could create about 80 new jobs in the area.

"Every job means the multiplier impact of people spending $1 here and that dollar transfers over five times throughout the community, so it continues to circulate and it makes a really big difference, so we're excited about the opportunity to see new jobs coming to Tulare," expresses Donnette Silva, the CEO of the Tulare Chamber of Commerce.

Tulare's Chamber of Commerce says Rosa's, another local dairy company, is also looking to grow in the area.

Helping enhance opportunities in the city and keeping it connected to its dairy roots.

"Dairy is the largest agricultural economic driver here, the county of Tulare is the largest milk producer in the world," Silva continues, "So, having the Marquez Brothers make a choice to be here in our community, and to take over that plant is perfect."

The Marquez Brothers new plant is expected to open by the end of 2026.

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