Work has begun on a $53 million renovation of the J.M. Smucker Co.’s Milk-Bone manufacturing facility located in Buffalo’s East Side.
The investment, most of which will be in the form of new processing equipment in the 550,000-square-foot Urban Street plant, further cements Milk-Bone’s manufacturing presence in Buffalo and represents one of the largest private sector investments in the city’s East Side, according to Gov. Kathy Hochul.
The renovation will expand production capacity and allow the company to create 17 new positions — in addition to the 280 jobs at the facility today — in order to meet increasing consumer demand.
“Milk-Bone has been a major employer on Buffalo’s East Side since 1957, so we’re very happy with its decision to invest in upgrading its facility and to add new jobs,” Hochul said. “The investment made at the Buffalo site is well timed to respond to the growth of the billion-dollar pet treat industry and represents a significant vote of confidence in New York’s business environment, our talented, highly trained workforce and our outstanding quality of life.”
The investment in the Buffalo facility includes an additional production line, a state-of-the-art oven, grinder, cooker, and additional processing equipment. The project also includes freezer expansion of approximately 897 square feet to accommodate the increase in raw materials and production at the site. Construction to support the renovations has started and is expected to be completed by April 2027. The company is planning to hire up to 17 new full-time permanent employees to staff the new line.
To help facilitate the company’s investment and expansion in Buffalo, Empire State Development (ESD) has agreed to provide Big Heart Pet Brands Inc., a subsidiary of the J.M. Smucker Co., up to $500,000 in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits to support the creation of new jobs.
“For nearly 70 years, pet parents have purchased Milk-Bone dog treats that are produced here in Buffalo,” Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said. “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, the State continues to invest in food manufacturing companies, including those that are creating jobs and keeping even four-legged consumers happy.”
New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll added, “The support of low-cost Niagara hydropower is vital to Western New York’s economic strength, driving investments like the $53 million Milk-Bone plant expansion that create meaningful job opportunities for New Yorkers.”
State Senator Sean M. Ryan said, “The Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit is a powerful tool for driving investment where it’s needed most, and today’s announcement is proof. I’m grateful to Smucker’s for their decision to expand the Milk-Bone plant here in Buffalo. It means more good-paying jobs and renewed economic momentum on the East Side.”
For more information, please visit milkbone.com.