Teaming up to help Toft Dairy

SANDUSKY — Toft Dairy — Ohio's oldest dairy company, making "one-quality" dairy products through five generations of family ownership dating back to 1900 — recently announced plans to expand operations at its facility on Venice Road (U.S. 6) in Sandusky, adding 20,000 square feet of modern freezer space. The project, supported by a JobsOhio state loan, will add seven new positions and retain 76 jobs. While the additional freezer space will support the company's continued growth, a portion of the space will also be available for public rental. This project will support the company's continued production and distribution of dairy products, predominantly ice cream, allowing it to reliably serve schools, hospitals, amusement parks, ballparks, grocery stores, ice cream shops and restaurants. "The 20,000-square-foot expansion to our current facility is a valuable investment in the future of Toft Dairy," said Logan Meisler, assistant vice president at Toft Dairy. Presently, Toft "faces significant challenges due to its insufficient and outdated storage infrastructure," according to a memo from Sandusky's government. "Thanks to our loyal employees, farmers and customers, we felt like it was the right time to move forward with the dream we have had for years," Meisler said. "The larger space will allow us to expand our distribution area and help solidify the future for the next generation of Toft's friends and family. We are committed to growing Toft Dairy in a way that the local community will be very proud of." A unified economic development team — including the Greater Sandusky Partnership, JobsOhio, and Team NEO (Northeast Ohio) — aligned resources and expertise to secure Toft Dairy's investment in Sandusky. "When you think of Sandusky, you think of Toft's," said Matt Lasko, the partnership's chief development officer. "This expansion not only strengthens their operations but ensures their legacy continues for years to come. Congratulations to the entire Toft Dairy team on this expansion." Added Team NEO's executive officer Matt Dolan: "Modernizing equipment is essential to staying competitive in today's important food and beverage industry. "This JobsOhio loan enables Toft Dairy, Inc. to increase efficiency while reinforcing Northeast Ohio's reputation as a leader in advanced manufacturing." Editor's note: A press release didn't specify the loan amount. Previous Register reporting indicated Toft Dairy's expansion project totals $7 million with most being paid through private financing. In 2025, Sandusky's government, in a separate agreement, also provided a no-interest loan totaling $250,000. It's payable over five years. The Erie County Port Authority is also assisting with this project. The project should also increase Toft Dairy's payroll, which totals about $4.65 million today. It stands to increase anywhere from 2% to 3% annually. Sales revenue, meanwhile, totals $28.3 million today and should also escalate from this expansion.