"New Zealand produce has a positive image globally and we want to add value to the high-quality proteins and grains produced in the Rangitikei region," the spokesman said.
Nestle worked closely with local producers, which was something it promoted, he said.
The company estimates that half the $7 million budget will be spent on local labour involved in the construction phase.
"It will inject much-needed job opportunities for the local companies, employing contractors in the region to complete the work.
"There will be a wide range of contractors employed including drafting, architects, control engineers, project management, engineers, gas fitters and plumbers, air-conditioning, as well as people involved in general construction and earthworks," he said.
Design work has begun and commissioning of the refurbished plant is scheduled for the end of 2015.
More importantly it will mean the Marton factory will be putting out product for export markets.
The company declined to say where those export markets were and what quantities would be exported, saying that information was "commercially sensitive".
The plant employs 40 staff but the spokesman said the company is still working through whether the upgrade will mean taking on more employees.
The factory runs 24 hours a day, five days a week, manned by three eight-hour shifts each day.
