Paris Baguette, a bakery brand under South Korea’s SPC Group, has commenced construction on its new US bakery in Texas.

The ground-breaking ceremony took place at High Point Business Park in Burleson, Johnson County.

The project, which entails a Won290bn ($208m) investment, was set in motion following a meeting between US President Donald Trump and business leaders, including SPC Group chairman Heo Young-in, during Trump's visit to Korea in 2019.

The construction of the 17,000m² production facility, as part of the first phase, is expected to be completed in 2027. Plans are on for an expansion to 28,000m² by 2029.

Distinguished attendees at the ground-breaking event included Burleson Mayor Chris Fletcher, Johnson County Judge Christopher Boedeker, and representatives from the Korean Consulate General in Houston.

Paris Baguette's leadership, including Heo Young-in, Paris Baguette America general manager Darren Tipton, and president Heo Jin-soo, were also present to mark the occasion.

Located on a 150,000m² area, the Texas bakery site was purchased in February. It will serve as a central production hub for Paris Baguette's North American operations.

The company has set a goal to establish 1,000 stores in North America by 2030 and is also eyeing expansion into the Central American market, reported The Korea Herald.

Construction and design of the facility are being managed by JE Dunn, a US-based construction company.

The project has also secured approval for up to $14m in subsidies from Johnson County and the city of Burleson.

Paris Baguette has been increasing its footprint in North America, with approximately 250 stores currently in operation.

The brand further solidified its presence last month by opening a new outlet in East Plano, Texas, which is the 17th location in the state.