United Dairy, in collaboration with JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE), and the Belmont County Port Authority, today announced an investment of over $2.3 million to expand its operations in Martins Ferry, Ohio, creating 7 new jobs.

“United Dairy is an Ohio-founded company that continues to invest, grow and create jobs throughout the state,” said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef. “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.”

Founded in 1954, 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,” said Doug Longenette, Director of Human Resources of United Dairy. “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.

With this investment, United Dairy will expand its production capacity and upgrade its equipment. This upgrade will 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,” said Larry Merry, Executive Director of the Belmont County Port Authority. “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.

“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.”

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Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE) is the JobsOhio Network Partner for southern, eastern, and southeastern Ohio, providing economic development work and resources in 25 rural counties. Geographically the largest of the seven regions across the state, OhioSE partners closely with regional development districts, local economic development offices, state agencies, and other entities to expand, retain, and attract businesses in the counties they serve.