Byrne announces expansion of East Syracuse facility

Byrne recently announced a $28 million expansion of its facility in East Syracuse.
The expansion will include approximately 22,500 square feet of processing and production area that will allow Byrne to move into the aseptic milk and beverage business.
Aseptic processing is used widely outside of the United States and allows milk and other beverages to be stored at room temperature for up to one year.
“Aseptic processing and packaging is the logical next step for Byrne,” said Carl Byrne, president and CEO of the company.  “Consumers are looking for products with longer shelf life. They also want products that can be ordered online and delivered to their door.”
The project is expected to create 64 new full time positions at Byrne as well as 125 construction jobs.
“We’re excited to have this opportunity to continue to invest in our business,” said Byrne, noting that this will be the fourth expansion of the facility since its establishment in 2004.
The announcement was attended by Lt. Gov. Kathleen Hochul and Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon.
Byrne worked closely with New York Empire State Development and the Onondaga County Industrial Development Agency to secure incentives to make the project a reality.  Empire State Development has provided $5 million in capital grants and job creation tax credits to assist the project.
“The expansion of Byrne’s facility in East Syracuse underscores the company’s commitment to invest and grow in the area,”  Hochul said. “This investment will allow Byrne to produce milk and other beverages that have a longer shelf life and increase the number of products that can be ordered online and delivered, which has seen a spike in demand due to the COVID-19 crisis. The project, which received grants from Empire State Development, will also create additional full-time and construction jobs in the Central New York area, reinforcing our efforts to build back better and strengthen the economy statewide in the post-pandemic future.”
The Onondaga County Industrial Development Agency has agreed to provide Byrne with sales tax exemptions on equipment and materials valued at $400,000.
OCIDA has also agreed to a property tax abatement valued at $224,336 over 10 years.
“It is welcome and encouraging news that even during these unprecedented times, the Central New York economy continues to be a source of growth and optimism,” McMahon said. “The investment and expansion being made at the Byrne facility right here in DeWitt is also an inspiring example of our local companies being able to not just survive, but thrive in the economy of today. McMahon continued, “With over 60 new permanent jobs being created, 125 construction jobs and the retention of almost 200 more, our entire community can take great pride in this homegrown company. Byrne continues to keep pace with growing technology and demand for innovative ways to safely source food and dairy products and this aseptic processing capability brings a sophisticated food preservation know-how that allows for an extended shelf life while optimizing food product quality right here to Onondaga County.”
Construction of the expansion is expected to be completed by January, 2021 with full production beginning in April, 2021.