Construction has started on a $53 million renovation at The J.M. Smucker Co.’s Milk-Bone manufacturing facility in Buffalo’s East Side. The project, which will focus largely on new processing equipment for the 550,000-square-foot Urban Street plant, is among the largest private sector investments in the area. It aims to expand production capacity and create 17 new jobs, adding to the current workforce of 280 employees.
Governor Kathy Hochul commented on the development, saying, “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. 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 renovation includes installing an additional production line along with new ovens, grinders, cookers, and other processing equipment. A freezer expansion of about 897 square feet will accommodate more raw materials and increased production. Construction began recently and is expected to finish by April 2027.
To support this expansion, Empire State Development (ESD) will provide up to $500,000 in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits through Big Heart Pet Brands Inc., a subsidiary of The J.M. Smucker Co.
Todd VeRost, Facility Manager of Plant Operations at The J.M. Smucker Co., said, “We are very pleased to continue to invest in expanding our Buffalo manufacturing facility to support our loyal Milk-Bone fans and their four-legged family members. In addition to enhancing our ability to deliver for our consumers, our dedicated team in Buffalo is proud to build on our strong track record as a leading area employer and to maintain our commitment to making a positive impact in this community.”
Hope Knight, President, CEO and Commissioner of Empire State Development added: “For nearly 70 years, pet parents have purchased Milk-Bone dog treats that are produced here in Buffalo, New York. 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. We thank the J.M. Smucker Co. for its ongoing investment at the well-known Buffalo-based manufacturing facility.”
Justin E. Driscoll, President and CEO of New York Power Authority said: “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. Today’s announcement reflects the strength of Western New York’s manufacturing sector and highlights the importance of public-private collaborations that contribute to the prosperity and development of our local communities.”
State Senator Sean M. Ryan remarked: “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.”
State Senator April N. M. Baskin stated: “J.M. Smucker’s substantial Urban Street investment on Buffalo’s East Side reinforces the confidence this venerable company has shown in our region and our area’s workforce. With the retention of current staff, the creation of several full-time jobs, and a continued commitment to the Buffalo facility, Smucker’s is a shining example of how companies make a difference in a responsible and ethical manner.”
Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes commented: “This is a great investment for Buffalo’s East Side community. Milk-Bone has been a part of the east side for generations, and this investment not only ensures that jobs stay at this facility but also, the facility will be expanding its workforce. This is another positive signal for our region’s business sphere.”
Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz said: “Milk-Bone has long been a part of our economic sector in Erie County and has employed residents locally for almost seventy years, so the news that they are expanding locally and creating new jobs is very welcome and I congratulate them on their growth. Employers like Milk Bone realize the top-notch workforce we have locally as well as the conducive business climate we have and Erie County benefits from these investments.”
City of Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon noted: “The East Side of Buffalo has long been home to Milk-Bone, and this major investment by The J.M. Smucker Company reinforces what we already know — Buffalo is a city where businesses can grow and thrive. Retaining hundreds of good-paying jobs while creating new opportunities for our residents is a win for our city, our neighborhoods, and our families. I thank Governor Hochul, Empire State Development, The J.M. Smucker Co., and our local partners for working together to make this investment possible.”
John Cappellino from Erie County Industrial Development Agency explained that sales tax benefits up to $1 million were approved by ECIDA Board as part of efforts ensuring Western New York remains competitive in retaining high-paying manufacturing jobs.
Ken Kujawa from National Grid shared that his organization awarded a $500K grant through its Electric Capital Investment Incentive Program supporting substation upgrades needed for packaging line enhancements during this expansion.
Thomas Kucharski from Invest Buffalo Niagara said: “The J.M. Smucker Co.’s decision to reinvest and expand in Western New York and Buffalo’s East Side is a validation of our region’s competitiveness on the global scale.”
