Dannon May Relocate Headquarters to White Plains
Dannon is considering relocating its headquarters from Greenburgh to White Plains in an effort to provide its younger employees with a surrounding environment full of services and social interaction.
The restaurant and entertainment culture developed over the past several years in White Plains is paying off, Mayor Tom Roach said at the October Common Council meeting. Major companies not wanting to pay the higher rents in Manhattan, but wanting an environment attractive to their employees are seeking out White Plains as a cost-effective alternative.
Dannon is looking at the top floors of the former Fortunoff’s building on the corner of Bloomingdale Road and Maple Avenue. The company’s offices are currently located across from Greenburgh Town Hall. More than 200 employees would be making the local move, considered a boon by White Plains businesses.
Dannon made a presentation to the White Pains Council at their last work session, which was well received by Council members. Councilwoman Milagros Lecuona suggested that the Carhart neighborhood association be invited to a viewing of that presentation and included in discussions about the proposed project going forward.
Dannon is seeking incentives from the Westchester Industrial Development Agency (IDA) for its proposed move. Plans call for a $30 million renovation of the former Fortunoff building and an increase in the company’s workforce from 440 to 590 over five years.
Michael Neuwirth, a spokesman for Dannon, said the company has yet to finalize its plans, which are contingent on a number of factors. “We are in the process of seeking approvals of our various applications with the City of White Plains Common Council, the County of Westchester’s IDA, and the State of New York Empire State Development,” Neuwirth said. “We appreciate everyone’s patience and tremendous support. We recognize the efforts of the State of New York, County of Westchester County and City of White Plains to keep us in the area, which we’ve called home for more than 20 years.”
