Fairlife breaks ground on $650M production facility in NY

By Blake Jackson

New York State celebrated a significant win for its dairy industry with the groundbreaking of a new fairlife production facility in Webster, Monroe County. This $650 million investment by Coca-Cola, fairlife's parent company, represents a major commitment to the region and positions New York to remain a national leader in dairy production.

Governor Kathy Hochul played a key role in securing the project, highlighting New York's strong agricultural resources and skilled workforce. The state is providing crucial support through various initiatives:

• $21 million from the Empire State Development through the Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit Program.
• Nearly 8.5 MW of low-cost power from the New York Power Authority.
• $20 million grant from the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation to upgrade Webster's wastewater treatment plant.

This investment extends beyond financial aid. Governor Hochul also championed a $34 million grant for on-farm milk storage and processing infrastructure and secured an increase in tax credits for farm businesses and workers.

The new facility, expected to be operational by late 2025, will be the largest dairy processing plant in the Northeast. It will create an estimated 250 jobs and utilize 5 million pounds of locally sourced milk per day. This translates to a significant boost for New York's nearly 3,000 dairy farms.

fairlife, known for its ultra-filtered milk products, will benefit from New York's strong dairy industry and its reputation as an agribusiness leader. The company's innovative products require a skilled workforce readily available in the region.

Local leaders, including Senator Samra Brouk, Assemblymember Brian Manktelow, and Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, expressed their enthusiasm for the project. They see it as an opportunity to create jobs, support local farms, and solidify Monroe County's position as a leader in the food and beverage industry.

The project also highlights the collaborative effort between various stakeholders. Partnerships between the state, Coca-Cola, fairlife, the Town of Webster, Rochester Gas and Electric, and Greater Rochester Enterprise were instrumental in bringing this project to life.

This groundbreaking ceremony marks a new chapter for New York's dairy industry. The fairlife facility is expected to be a major economic driver, generating jobs, stimulating local businesses, and solidifying New York's position as a leader in innovative dairy production.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-vm