Major Financial Commitment to Expansion
Wells Enterprises, the US-based ice-cream manufacturer known for brands like Halo Top and Blue Bunny, has significantly increased its investment in the expansion of its production site in Dunkirk, New York. The company has upped its initial commitment from $250 million to $425 million, marking a $174 million increase.
Significant Job Creation and Production Capacity Increase
The augmented investment is expected to generate 270 new jobs, adding to the initial projection of over 200 roles. The funds will be utilized to install a pioneering chocolate ingredient processing line, which will more than double the factory’s size to 350,000 square feet. Additionally, the expansion will enhance the plant’s annual production capacity from 3-4 million cases of ice cream to over 20 million cases.
Community and State Support
New York State has contributed approximately $18 million to the project through a grant and business tax credits scheme, underscoring its support for the expansion. Construction is ongoing, with the facility continuing its ice-cream production during this period. The expanded section of the Dunkirk plant is anticipated to be operational by August 2025.
Wells Enterprises CEO, Liam Killeen, expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the company’s commitment to quality and community growth. This development follows the 2022 acquisition of Wells Enterprises by Italian confectionery giant Ferrero.
