Submitted Photos (From L to R): Adam Dolce, Executive Director of United Way of Northern Chautauqua County; Anthony De La O, Factory Manager of Nestle Purina manufacturing facility in Dunkirk, New York; George Borello, New York State Senator; Jason Christoffersen, Vice President of Manufacturing for Nestle Purina; Nolan Terry, Chief Technology Officer of Nestle Purina; Richard Purol, Town of Dunkirk Supervisor; Wilfred Rosas, Mayor of Dunkirk; Andrew Goodell, New York State Assemblyman.

There is no question this region has received a couple more gut punches in terms of the local economy. Just weeks after a positive note regarding the sale of the White Inn to local developers in Fredonia, some bad news began to pour in.

It started with the loss of 319 jobs beginning Jan. 1 at the Wells Enterprises ice cream plant in Dunkirk. One month later, hopes for ImmunityBio took a turn for the worse as the company announced nearly 40 layoffs at its recently built state-of-the-art facility that needs some extensive interior improvements.

Thank goodness north county leaders did have something to celebrate over the past month. In late September, Nestle Purina in Dunkirk marked a half-century of safe operations at the facility. During a Saturday event, current staff and retirees and their families came out for a special gathering.

“It is humbling to be part of a celebration recognizing 50 years of manufacturing excellence by our proud Purina team in Dunkirk, New York,” said new Purina Chief Technology Officer Nolan Terry. “Our manufacturing associates play a vital role in keeping pets and people together, so this celebration is largely focused on recognizing them – both our current team and those who retired and moved on, as well as their families who together have made countless sacrifices to help ensure that we deliver our quality and trusted products to pets and pet owners who rely on us.”

That checkerboard tower that proudly stands is a true beacon of success. Since its beginnings in 1972, the plant has grown in terms of its physical presence as well as in workers. It is one of the most important engines in this community as its current staff plays an important role in supporting a number of nonprofit agencies.

Several pet food brands are produced at the location, including Purina Pro Plan, Purina ONE, Cat Chow and Dog Chow. The Purina factory in Dunkirk is also the sole producer of several popular Purina treats, including Busy Bones, DentaLife and Prime Bones, among others.

Nestle Purina got its start when steel and other manufacturing drove the north county. Five decades later, Nestle Purina has endured — and become one of the most important partners in our region.