Written by: Steve Melito, Industry Blog Writer for FuzeHub
New York State is America’s Yogurt Capital, a title the Empire State took from California in 2013. With FAGE’s announcement of a planned $82-million expansion at its Johnstown facility, New York is poised to retain this production distinction. Driven by consumer demand for Greek yogurt, the number of New York State yogurt manufacturers has doubled since 2000 and now includes 28 companies, including Chobani.
Rich in history and successful in global markets, FAGE is an 87-year old Greek business that sells yogurt in 35 countries. When the factory expansion in Johnstown begins, Rochester’s LeChase Construction will play a pivotal role. With offices across the Empire State, the general contractor already has subcontractors working on the FAGE project, and will still need over 200 plumbers, electricians, and construction workers.
The two-year, $82-million FAGE expansion will also result in the creation of 150 new manufacturing jobs, nearly doubling the size of the current 270-person workforce. Today, FAGE is advertising openings for lab and maintenance technicians. There are also employment opportunities for warehouse personnel and machine operators at the Fulton County factory.
According to the Albany Business Review, FAGE’s factory expansion will double production capacity from 80,000 to 160,000 tons per year. In addition to adding 240,000 square feet of manufacturing space, silos, and parking lots, the Greek yogurt manufacturer is investing in new equipment. As consumers continue to choose healthier foods, FAGE is tasting success in New York State.
Read original story: FAGE prepares for mass hiring as $82 million expansion wraps up next month
Want more news, updates, and insights about NYS manufacturing? Join the FuzeHub mailing list and begin receiving our free email newsletters. They’re a great source of information, and contain great information like you’re reading now in this article.