By Jeff Martin
Workers are now working at the Great Lakes Cheese Company outside Franklinville.
According to reports, the packaging operations began in early February, marking a significant milestone for the company.
Reports suggest that approximately 30 employees from the packaging department, along with 15 individuals from the Cuba office operations, have transitioned to the new facility. Some fresh hires have also been onboarded as part of this relocation process.
With an influx of tradesmen diligently working to finalize the construction, the plant’s completion is imminent. Once operational, it is expected to double the cheese production capacity of Great Lakes Cheese Co.
In the forthcoming months, the packaging operations currently housed in the Cuba plant will be shifted to Franklinville, a transition anticipated to involve approximately 200 employees by summer, according to other published sources.
In recent discussions, it has been revealed that over the past year, Great Lakes Cheese Co. has expanded its workforce by approximately 70 individuals, with plans to hire an additional 100 over the next 18 months. This growth trajectory has been met with unexpected success, attributed to the concerted efforts of the company and its local economic development partners.
Initial apprehensions regarding the recruitment of an additional 250 employees have been effectively addressed through collaborative initiatives. At full capacity, the new plant is projected to provide employment opportunities for approximately 500 individuals, effectively doubling the current workforce at the Cuba location.
Retention of the existing workforce and access to a robust milk supply were cited as key factors influencing the decision to establish the new facility near Cuba. Notably, milk co-ops currently contribute 2 million pounds of milk per day, a figure set to increase to 4.5 million pounds at full production. Farmers in the region have reportedly prepared for this surge in demand, ensuring a seamless transition.
The decision to relocate the plant to Allegany County was abandoned in 2021, prompting the exploration of alternative locations. Ultimately, the acquisition of nearly 200 acres near Franklinville paved the way for the commencement of construction in April 2022.
According to other published sources, cheese production should begin at the plant by the end of the year, according to Matt Wilkinson, GLC’s Vice President for Technology and Business Development.