Company to create 260 new jobs, invest more than $25 Million in State’s economy

Governor George E. Pataki today announced that Sealy Mattress Company Inc., will invest more than $25 million to expand its regional facility in Albany County’s Empire Zone, which was designated by the Governor in 1998. This expansion will retain 198 jobs and create 260 new jobs within one year of occupying their new facility in Green Island.

The Capital Region faced stiff competition for Sealy’s new investment from Pennsylvania and Massachusetts.

“Sealy’s decision to invest more than $25 million and create 260 new jobs is great news for the Capital Region’s economy,” Governor Pataki said. “As we move forward with creating high-tech jobs with our International Sematach initiative, we will also continue making smart investments to ensure our economy is strong and diverse with more jobs being created in every industry.

“Attracted by our sweeping tax cuts, new Empire Zones and a dramatically improved business climate, more and more companies like Sealy are making the smart decision to invest, expand, and create new jobs here in Upstate New York.”

Sealy Mattress Company (Division of Sealy, Inc.) currently manufactures mattresses in 82,000 square feet in Albany County. Sealy has outgrown its current facility and will move its operations to a 307,000 square foot manufacturing/distribution facility in Green Island, which is located in Albany County’s Empire Zone. The new build-to-suit facility will be leased for 15 years.

Dan Hige, Corporate VP of Operations for Sealy indicated that Sealy’s decision to expand their New York facility was made due to the strength of the local workforce and the strong support of New York State, Albany County, and the Village of Green Island. After reviewing alternatives to expand their Massachusetts and Pennsylvania facilities, Sealy elected to make the expansion in the Capital District area.

Congressman Michael McNulty said, “In the aftermath of the loss of the Ford Motor Company in the 1980s, Green Island continues its strong economic resurgence. I thank the Governor and other State officials — and especially my dad, Mayor Jack McNulty — for bringing to Green Island this $25 million investment along with 260 new jobs.”

Michael Breslin, Albany County Executive said, “Albany County, together with the Albany-Colonie Chamber of Commerce has been working with the Sealy Corporation for several years to help them to expand their local operations. I am gratified we were able to provide financial assistance to keep Sealy in Albany County and help with their expansion.”

Jack McNulty, Mayor, Village of Green Island said, “We are very happy that this deal has been accomplished. The investment and expansion will result in Sealy Mattress staying in Albany County and relocating to Green Island.”

This expansion comes as the result of significant market share growth for Sealy in the Northeast region — particularly in New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. Sealy has domestic manufacturing facilities in 19 states including nearby facilities in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. Albany County’s Sealy facility has been recognized in four of the last five years as their top performing facility based upon the plant’s quality, service, and safety performance.

Sealy Corporation is the largest bedding manufacturer in the world. Sealy manufactures and markets a broad range of mattresses and foundations under the Sealy, Sealy Posturepedic, Stearns & Foster and Bassett brand names. Sealy has the largest market share and consumer awareness of any bedding brand in North America.

Charles A. Gargano, Chairman of Empire State Development, said, “Because of Governor Pataki’s leadership, New York has made the fundamental changes in our business climate necessary to help communities win new jobs and new investment. I applaud our Governor’s dedication and vital pro-business policies, and I congratulate Sealy on their wise choice to invest in New York State.”

In consideration of its commitment to the New York State economy, Sealy Mattress Company Inc., is eligible to apply for a $500,000 working capital grant, a $100,000 training grant and a $100,000 capital grant to assist with the cost associated with relocating equipment from Empire State Development. The company is also expected to receive tax benefits for its investment and job creation in the Albany County Empire Zone.

AboutThe Author:

Jennifer Holden is a successful author and regular contributor to http://mattressreviews.us. Choose from a large variety of mattress types and get a good night’s sleep!