Shamrock Farms, Phoenix, Ariz., began construction on a new $50 million state-of-the-art dairy manufacturing facility in Virginia.

"This is a key milestone in our company's more than 90-year history, and a natural next step as we continue to achieve even further national growth," says Kent McClelland, chairman and CEO. "The Shamrock Farms brand stands for ‘Real.Fresh.Ideas,’ which means a commitment to innovation and to providing authentic, high-quality dairy products."

Shamrock Farms will now have dual manufacturing capabilities by increasing production capacity and better positioning them to respond to increasing demand. The new facility will feature the latest in extended shelf-life (ESL) technology. Construction will begin in the coming months, and the facility is expected to open in late 2014. It will be 130,000 square feet with room for expansion. Once completed, the plant will employ up to 60 people. Shamrock Farms will source its milk from Virginia-area farmers to ensure that it meets the same high-quality standards as Shamrock's farm in Arizona.

To kick off its relationship with the Augusta County community, Shamrock will be donating Rockin' Refuel to Fort Defiance High School athletic teams.