Cheesemaker announces $14 million expansion

For Immediate Release

Contact: Mark Maley, 608-210-6767
mark.maley@wedc.org

Cheesemaker announces $14 million expansion

Sartori Co.’s renovation project expected to create 53 new jobs at Wisconsin facilities

MADISON, December 11, 2013 – The Sartori Co., a family-owned cheese company, announced today that it will embark on a $14 million expansion and renovation project at its plants in Antigo and Plymouth – a project that is expected to create up to 53 new jobs.

The project will enable the fourth-generation family-owned company to update their Wisconsin facilities.  Sartori plans to update equipment, improve Team Member ergonomics, enhance safety and sustainability initiatives while expanding capacity and capabilities to enable ongoing growth. Work will begin in 2014, which is also Sartori’s 75th anniversary.

To assist with the financing of the project, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) is has certified up to $394,500 in Economic Development Tax Credits. The tax credits will be distributed annually based on the number of new, full-time positions created over a three-year period. The company also is expected to retain its 265 team members at the Antigo and Plymouth facilities.

“The dairy industry is a vital part of Wisconsin’s economy, and we’re pleased that the State of Wisconsin is able to assist this strong family-owned business as it continues to expand and reach new markets,” said Gov. Scott Walker.

“We are fortunate to be in Wisconsin where organizations like WEDC are available to help Wisconsin companies accelerate their growth,” said Sartori President Jeff Schwager. “We have highly skilled team members and award-winning cheese that have led to growth over the past few years, and we’re looking forward to continue to grow in Wisconsin for years to come.”

Schwager noted that the expansion with have an economic benefit well beyond Sartori as it will mean more business for local farm families, milk haulers, construction and engineering firms, and dozens of suppliers.

The Langlade County Economic Development Corporation assisted the company and the state with this project.

About Sartori

Family owned and operated, Sartori has been producing artisan and premium cheese for seven decades for specialty, retail, ingredient, restaurant and food service markets. Based in Plymouth, Sartori has an impressive array of award winning cheese noted for innovative approaches and consistent top quality across their entire line.  For more information, visit www.sartoricheese.com or contact Chad Vincent at 920-449-7904

About the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) leads economic development efforts for the state by advancing Wisconsin’s business climate. WEDC nurtures business growth and job creation by providing resources, technical support and financial assistance to companies, partners and communities in Wisconsin. WEDC has four focus areas: business and industry development, economic and community development, entrepreneurship and innovation and international business development. Together with more than 600 regional and local business development partners, it represents a highly responsive and coordinated network. Visit www.inwisconsin.com or follow WEDC on Twitter  @_InWisconsin to learn more.