Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the completion of AgriAmerica Fruit Products LLC's $2.5 million revitalization of a 69,000-square-foot grape juice processing facility in Fredonia, New York. The upgrade significantly expands grape processing capacity in Western New York and strengthens the region's agricultural economy.
Originally acquired in 2018, the long-dormant facility at 200 Water Street was modernized with new machinery to serve as a reliable processing outlet for local grape growers. AgriAmerica's investment was supported by a $498,600 capital grant through the Western New York Regional Economic Development Council and Empire State Development (ESD).
"This facility is vital for Chautauqua County's grape farmers and reflects our commitment to upstate economic growth," Governor Hochul said.
The project was initiated in response to the closure or downsizing of three local grape processing plants, which left over 25,000 tons of grapes unprocessed annually, resulting in losses of more than $3.5 million for area farmers.
AgriAmerica Fruit Products, a subsidiary of AgriAmerica LLC, now provides processing services to the Lake Erie Fruit Cooperative, which represents nearly 100 family farms cultivating over 10,000 tons of grapes annually. The upgraded facility produces single-strength juices, concentrates, pulps, and purees, all export-grade and Kosher for Passover.
Founding Partner Eric Huddy emphasized the project's wide-reaching impact: "This revitalization supports grape growers across the Lake Erie and Finger Lakes regions, bringing back a critical outlet for local harvests."
The modernization includes a new juice concentration system designed and installed by Buffalo-based firms. This allows for more efficient processing, reduced transport costs, and an environmentally favorable shift to concentrate production. The facility now produces nearly 2 million gallons of juice annually, equivalent to about 32 million servings.
In addition to supporting the agricultural supply chain, the project is expected to generate five new full-time jobs and several seasonal positions. It is also projected to support 469 full-time equivalent jobs over four years in agriculture and related sectors.
Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. praised the project as "a commitment to the hardworking grape growers who define our region's agricultural identity."
Mark Geise, CEO of the County of Chautauqua Industrial Development Agency, and Fredonia Mayor Michael Ferguson echoed support, highlighting the collaboration among local, county, and state stakeholders that made the project possible.
The Fredonia facility stands as the only grape processing plant in the Lake Erie region where 100% of the output is certified Kosher for Passover, serving customers such as Royal Wine Corporation and Kedem Foods.
For more information:
Governor Kathy Hochul
Tel: +1 518 474 8418
Email: [email protected]
www.governor.ny.gov
