Masters Gallery Foods, Inc. announced plans to build a new packaging and distribution facility in Oostburg, Wis.
The new facility will allow the company to drive continued growth of its private brand retail and foodservice cheese offerings sold nationwide, and will support the company’s original plant and corporate headquarters in Plymouth, Wis.
“We’re thrilled to be embarking on our second production facility. It’s a proud moment for the company and all our associates, and we hope it’s exciting for the local community as well,” says Jeff Gentine, co-owner and CEO.
The Oostburg plant will be built on a nearly 40-acre parcel of land recently acquired by the village. While the design is still being finalized, Phase 1 of construction is expected to be roughly 150,000 square feet. The master site plan will accommodate two additional expansions for a total footprint of approximately 350,000 square feet. Groundwork and site preparation for Phase 1 are expected to begin next spring, with occupancy by early 2018.
The estimated $30 million Phase 1 is expected to result in roughly 120 new jobs over the next 2-3 years while the master plan has the potential to create an additional 200 or more jobs.
Oostburg was deemed an ideal location thanks to its proximity to Highway 43 and the ability to attract new employees from both the north and south.
“We explored building out of state, but after a thorough analysis, we determined that expanding in our backyard was best,” says Gentine. “Maintaining our company culture is paramount, and the workforce in Wisconsin, particularly in Sheboygan County, is second to none, especially when it comes to the dairy business. We can’t replicate that anywhere else.”
“The new facility is testament to the value and quality products Masters Gallery Foods provides our customers," says Jeff Giffin, executive chairman. “It’s exciting to be part of Sheboygan County’s continued business growth.”
Today, Masters Gallery Foods runs multiple production lines for shredding, slicing, chunking and sticking of natural cheese.
