BIG FLATS, N.Y. — DeMet’s Candy, maker of chocolate products under Turtles, Treasures and Flipz brands, has broken ground on the first phase of a $41 million expansion plan at its facility in upstate New York.
The first phase of the expansion will add approximately 20,000 square feet and will increase production capacity by roughly 50%, while creating 20 new full-time jobs. It also will see a new R.&D. lab and new processing lines to enable further innovation and a broader range of products, DeMet’s said.
As part of the investment, aging equipment will be upgraded and new technologies will be employed to increase operational excellence, the company said.
According to DeMet’s, the first phase of the expansion will be fully operational by July 2016, while phase two will roll out in 2018 and will add manufacturing lines and up to 50 more full-time jobs. The overall plan includes expanded working space and employee services as well.
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| Trip Tripathy, c.e.o. of DeMet's |
“The state of New York offers great growth opportunities and support for businesses like DeMet’s Candy,” said Trip Tripathy, chief executive officer. “This is a major investment in our presence in the Elmira-Corning region, and we are quite pleased to be offering employment to the local community.”
Mr. Tripathy also elaborated on the company’s future plans.
“The expansion is part of a long-term strategy to unlock further growth for Turtles and Flipz and expand DeMet’s Candy Co.’s operations,” he said. “We aim to grow our business 20% to 25% over the next 3 years.”
DeMet’s Candy owns two production facilities, one in Big Flats and one in Mohnton, Pa. The company is owned by Yildiz Holding, owner of the master brands Ülker, McVitie’s and Godiva. Yildiz is a global, snacking focused food company with more than 320 brands in 49 different categories.
