Empire State Development announced on May 5 that Bread Alone Bakery has started construction on a 15,000-square-foot expansion of its production facility in Lake Katrine, Ulster County. The project is supported by an $800,000 Regional Council Capital Fund award and is expected to create 52 new full-time jobs while retaining 195 existing positions. Construction is scheduled for completion in December.
The expansion highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen the food and beverage manufacturing sector in the Mid-Hudson Region. By supporting local businesses like Bread Alone, officials say the region can reinforce supply chains and foster job creation.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Bread Alone’s expansion reflects the strength of New York’s food manufacturing industry and the impact of strategic investments that help local businesses modernize and compete. By supporting this project, we are advancing job creation, reinforcing regional supply chains, and ensuring that New York remains a leader in high-quality food production.”
The expanded facility will include new space for production, packaging, and distribution. This will allow Bread Alone to implement advanced technology and improve efficiency as it meets growing demand for its organic sourdough breads. The bakery currently produces more than 200,000 loaves per week for retailers such as Whole Foods and FreshDirect across the Northeast.
Bread Alone was founded in 1983 in the Catskills as a small family-run bakery. It has since grown into a nationally recognized producer with distribution throughout the Northeast. The company is partially employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
Bread Alone CEO Nels Leader said, “Bread Alone has been committed to organic sourdough since 1983. More than 40 years later, we feel that we are just getting started. This project will set up our team to bake our best sourdough ever.”
Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Dr. Marsha Gordon and Dr. Kristine Young said, “Bread Alone is a signature Mid-Hudson brand with deep roots in Ulster County. This expansion builds on the region’s agricultural heritage and strengthens a local employer that reflects the values of sustainability, entrepreneurship, and community investment that define the Mid-Hudson economy.”
Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger also commented on Bread Alone’s reputation for quality products made with care: “Anyone who has enjoyed their bread knows the care and craft that Bread Alone brings to everything they bake… I thank Empire State Development and the Regional Council Capital Fund for supporting this important project…”
Town of Ulster Supervisor Jim Quigley said since 2013 his office has supported Bread Alone’s growth locally: “This expansion required to support the growth of Bread Alone’s business is a validation of their commitment to the Town of Ulster.”
Executive Vice President of Corporate Development for Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp., Anthony S. Campagiorni said partnerships between business leaders help build strong communities: “Our economic development grant to Bread Alone reflects that commitment—supporting companies that invest locally… Partnerships like this show what’s possible when business and community growth move forward hand in hand.”
