United Dairy Unveils $2.3M Expansion, Boosting Ohio Dairy
United Dairy has announced a significant investment exceeding $2.3 million to expand its operations in Martins Ferry, Ohio. This strategic growth initiative, undertaken in collaboration with JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE), and the Belmont County Port Authority, signals a strong commitment to the region’s dairy industry. The expansion is poised to bolster the company’s production capabilities and enhance its service to crucial sectors.
A key outcome of this substantial investment will be the creation of seven new jobs within the Martins Ferry facility. This expansion not only provides direct employment opportunities but also reinforces the economic vitality of Belmont County. For the dairy processing sector, such targeted investments are crucial for sustaining local economies and fostering growth in agribusiness employment.
Established in 1954, United Dairy has a long-standing history of producing a wide range of dairy and ice cream products. The current expansion is specifically designed to strengthen the company’s capacity to serve vital customers, including schools and hospitals. This focus highlights the critical role of dairy manufacturers in providing essential food products to public institutions and ensuring food security within local communities.
The project encompasses a significant expansion of the plant’s overall production capacity, coupled with strategic upgrades to existing equipment. These enhancements are aimed at improving packaging efficiency and flexibility, allowing United Dairy to adapt more readily to market demands and optimize its operational flow. Such technological advancements are vital for maintaining competitiveness in the dynamic dairy market.
This expansion is financially supported by a $200,000 JobsOhio Grant, underscoring the state’s commitment to fostering dairy industry growth. Officials view this investment as essential for securing the long-term future of the Martins Ferry plant, preserving existing local jobs, and continuing to support the hundreds of family-owned dairy farms in the region. For the international dairy community and dairy economics analysts, this move exemplifies how local investments can solidify regional dairy supply chains and ensure resilience in a fluctuating market.
