Photo Provided A few of the cows that provide the milk for United Dairy and make its business possible.

MARTINS FERRY — In collaboration with JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, and the Belmont County Port Authority, United Dairy announced an investment of over $2.3 million to expand its operations in Martins Ferry, which will create seven new jobs.

“United Dairy is an Ohio-founded company that continues to invest, grow and create jobs throughout the state,” JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef said in a news release. “The expansion at the Martins Ferry facility strengthens United Dairy’s footprint in the state while ensuring schools and hospitals throughout the region continue to be supplied with its nutritious, high-quality products.”

With this investment, United Dairy plans to expand its production capacity and upgrade its equipment. This upgrade is planned to improve the efficiency and flexibility of packaging to meet growing demand from schools and hospitals.

“United Dairy has been a cornerstone of the Martins Ferry community for decades, not just as a major employer, but as a key partner to hundreds of local farms,” Larry Merry, executive director of the Belmont County Port Authority, said. “This expansion project is essential to securing the plant’s future in Belmont County and keeping those jobs and investments here at home. Just as important is the supporting roadwork, which ensures safe, reliable access for the trucks that keep this facility running every day. Infrastructure and industry go hand in hand, and this project is a chance to strengthen both for the long haul.”

The project is supported by a $200,000 JobsOhio Grant, which promotes economic development, business expansion, and job creation by funding eligible projects. OhioSE helped the company through the process necessary to obtain assistance.

Founded in 1954, according to the release, United Dairy produces top-quality dairy and ice cream products, with a commitment to excellence from sourcing at local family farms to delivering fresh, trusted products to customers’ refrigerators.

“At United Dairy, we take great pride in producing fresh, high-quality dairy products and supporting the local farmers and families who make it all possible,” United Dairy Director of Human Resources Doug Longenette said in the release. “This expansion strengthens our ability to serve key customers like schools and hospitals while deepening our roots here in Martins Ferry. We’re grateful for the collaboration and support from JobsOhio, OhioSE, and the Belmont County Port Authority, who helped make this investment and our continued growth in Belmont County a reality.”

The company supports more than 300 family-owned dairy farmers, strengthening the local economy and workforce.

“We applaud United Dairy for their continued commitment to excellence and innovation,” said Matt Abbott, president and CEO of OhioSE. “This project not only strengthens their position in the market but also fosters economic growth and opportunity in Belmont County.”