Zweigle’s completes Phase I of expansion project
Meat manufacturer Zweigle’s, which specializes in hot dog and other “Old World” products, has completed the first phase of an expansion project at the company’s Plymouth Avenue facility. This phase included the addition of 15,000 square-feet to the company’s advanced manufacturing plant.
The entire project will allow the company to meet the growing demand in markets outside of New York State for its private label and co-packing business. Zweigle’s had considered moving this operation out of state but committed to staying in the region due to state support. The company expects to hire up to 33 new employees; at least 12 of those positions will be reserved for workers impacted by poverty; almost 60 jobs will be retained.
“For more than 100 years, Zweigle’s has demonstrated its ongoing commitment to the city of Rochester,” said Eric Gertler, president and CEO-designate of Empire State Development. The enduring growth of this family-owned business reflects our strategic investment in keeping renowned companies and their unparalleled products in New York State, where they can continue to thrive and create top-quality jobs.”
Phase one of the project included property acquisition, building demolition, renovations, new construction and the purchase of machinery and equipment. Zweigle’s plans to further invest in additional improvements to the facility in the city of Rochester over the next few years.
ESD provided support for the expansion project with up to $600,000 through the Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit Program in exchange for job creation commitments. The agency is also providing $250,000 through the regional Upstate Revitalization Initiative; another $150,000 will come from a Capital Grant and the New York State Job Development Authority assisted the project with $1.86 million. The total project cost was placed at close to $18.8 million. The city of Rochester, Monroe County, Rochester Gas & Electric and Greater Rochester Enterprise also assisted with this project.
Established in Rochester in 1880, Zweigle’s is a 140-year-old, fifth-generation family owned business which is now being run by the original founder’s great-great granddaughter. The company’s renowned products include chicken sausage. classic sausage, deli meats, grilled chicken, meatballs and of course its world-famous natural casing and skinless hot dogs.