ECONOMIC CHAMPION – BYRNE DAIRY

Presented by Solvay Bank

This feature of CEO Insights spotlights local companies that are “Economic Champions” because of their success in adding jobs, expanding their products or services, advancing diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, gaining national recognition or contributing to the success of the region in special ways.

As a regional dairy processor with 90 years of experience, Byrne Dairy proudly supports the manufacturing and agricultural communities of Central New York. Its brand and reputation have earned new customers nationally and abroad. As it continues to expand, Byrne strives to champion Central New York and contribute to the region through its products and employment opportunities.

Despite the tight labor market, Byrne has successfully added jobs thanks to its commitment to safety, competitive compensation, professional development opportunities and connections with its senior leaders. Byrne now employs 550 people, many of whom have been with the company for decades. Its ongoing objective is to foster an environment where people come to Byrne for a career — not just a job.

Additionally, Byrne’s industry presence attracts employees and support services from outside the area, enriching the diversity of Central New York. Byrne partnered with ProLiteracy and the Syracuse City School District to develop an English as a New Language program for employees whose primary languages include Spanish, Kinyarwanda and Swahili. This critical addition to its workforce toolkit positions its employees for success within the company and in the greater community.

Byrne closely monitors market trends and consumer needs. It co-manufactures dairy products for major regional and national brands and is involved in many of their innovative product launches. In the last several years, Byrne has entered the aseptic (shelf-stable) dairy market. Shelf-stable dairy products are on a steep growth trajectory, allowing Byrne to service national customers that were once out of reach.