A New York based dairy, Ultra Dairy LLC is planning to almost double its plant size this year. The move will create 70 jobs for the DeWitt, N.Y. company, a spin-off of Byrne Dairy Inc. Plans include a 46,000-square-foot addition to the existing building.
Nicholas Marsella, chief operating officer and senior vice president of Byrne Dairy, said construction will start soon and is expected to be completed in October. The company estimates the expansion will cost $9.5 million, including $8.8 million for building construction.
The expansion will help Ultra Dairy meet growing demand for its ultra-high pasteurized milk, creams and ice cream mixes. Products made at the plant have a shelf life of 60 to 90 days, as opposed to the two weeks or so that most dairy products can last.
Besides offering a convenience to retailers and customers, the extra shelf life has opened markets for Byrne because it can ship its products to more distant locations. Marsella said most of the products made at Ultra Dairy are sold in other states, with many of them going to Texas, Florida and the Carolinas.