Krinos Foods, a global importer, distributor and manufacturer of Greek, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern specialty foods in North America, has opened the doors to its state-of-the-art, 100,000-s.f. facility in the Bronx section of New York City.
Krinos Foods outgrew its longtime Long Island City location and invested $25 million into its new Bronx operational facility.
Two New York government agencies—the New York City Industrial Development Agency (NYCIDA) and the New York City Economic Development Corp (NYCEDC)—assisted Krinos Foods in its commitment to retain its international headquarters within New York City. The company was founded in Tribeca in 1958.
After internal expansion and acquisitions, Krinos responded to an RFP issued by NYCEDC in April 2012 seeking to remain headquartered in New York City. It subsequently purchased the Bathgate site from the city for $3.5 million.
The new facility is the result of Eric Moscahlaidis’ family loyalty to his New York City origins. When the need for a larger, more efficient facility arose, Moscahlaidis, company chairman, decided to build a new plant in New York City rather than move to an existing facility elsewhere. The new corporate headquarters, manufacturing operation and distribution center fills a lot in the Bronx that had been vacant for nearly three decades.
When the new facility is at full capacity, Krinos will employ approximately 100 employees in the Bronx.
“The new facility is a significant milestone for Krinos as we continue to lead within the Mediterranean specialty foods market,” said Moscahlaidis. “The new building and systems will improve and streamline our production and distribution. I am proud of what we’ve built and am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for our company.”
The new plant features:
State-of-the-art freezers and refrigerators
Energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems
Digital signage on the exterior
A cutting-edge warehouse management system and security system
A cash-and-carry operation for local food retailers
Solar power
The new manufacturing operation will house production lines to pack jars, tubs, bags and pails, and will include a German-engineered plastic cup-sealing machine that is the first of its kind within the United States.
Additionally, there is a separate, full wash-down area so as to not contaminate production; a bin system for optimal order picking; a new inventory control system to eliminate out-of-stocks; and refrigerators and freezers that have customized temperatures and humidity by product line.
Krinos Foods has facilities in Atlanta, Chicago, New York and Santa Maria. Krinos imports more than 3,000 frozen, refrigerated and dry food products from 25-plus countries. These products include cheeses, olives, olive oils, pasta, confectionary, canned goods, frozen foods, coffees and beverages. Krinos also manufactures products in both bulk and consumer packs. It owns and represents more than 50 brands.
The company caters to 5,000 customers such as supermarkets, gourmet stores, delicatessens, club stores and most foodservice institutions throughout North America.
