Advance Realty Investors has broken ground on a new global headquarters in Bedminster for Freshpet.
The new 30,000 square-foot, eco-friendly facility will be joined by approximately 20,000 square feet of planned retail, dining, and amenity space to anchor “Bedminster Village Square,” Advance Realty Investors’ reimagined home campus.
The new headquarters is scheduled for completion in early 2025.
The recent groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Bedminster Mayor Lawrence Jacobs, Somerset County Commissioner Director Shanel Robinson, and principals from Advance Realty Investors and Freshpet, along with other municipal officials and dignitaries.
“The greatest act that a company can do is to build a new building and a new corporate headquarters,” Peter Cocoziello Sr., Advance’s founder and CEO, said. “For one thing, it denotes their future — they believe that their future is bright, and here they are building a new building. It’s certainly very special to work with the company, and we’re pleased to work with you. We wish you all the success in this location.”
Freshpet has manufacturing facilities in Bethlehem, PA, and Ennis, TX. After extensive deliberation, Freshpet chose Bedminster as the ideal location for its new home for approximately 100 team members and their pets.
“As our company has grown and the way we work has evolved, we’re moving towards creating an environment that encourages better team collaboration while providing closer proximity to our technical base in our PA Kitchens,” Freshpet CEO Billy Cyr said.
Freshpet Co-founder Scott Morris added, “We’re excited to break ground on our new global headquarters in Bedminster. This location offers exceptional access to major roadways and a bucolic environment that aligns with our commitment to a balanced work-life experience. The additional retail and amenities planned by Advance will create a vibrant and supportive campus for our team. We appreciate the warm welcome from Mayor Larry Jacobs and other township and Somerset County officials, which reinforces our decision to make Bedminster our new home.”
Designed by 2023 AIA New Jersey “Architect of the Year” Nancy Dougherty, managing partner at Studio 1200 based in Short Hills, the Freshpet corporate headquarters will be crafted to harmonize with Bedminster’s inherent charm and character. The building will incorporate significant environmentally conscious features, including the use of healthy materials and renewable sources, electric vehicle charging stations, and innovative energy efficiency measures.
“While the office market continues to navigate its recovery, this project reflects the importance of offering locations in areas with convenient access to modern amenities and services,” Advance Realty Investors Chief Investment Officer Alex Cocoziello said. “Through our redevelopment efforts, we are creating an environment that aligns with the needs of today’s workforce, helping to attract top talent and appeal to leading companies like Freshpet. We’re excited to welcome them to Bedminster and are confident they will make a positive impact on the community.”
In addition to the Freshpet headquarters and new retail component, Bedminster Village Square will feature significant additional landscaping and a system of pedestrian paths that will connect to the extensive hike-and-bike infrastructure in Bedminster’s open space network.
In connection with this project, Advance also plans to enhance the 87,000 square feet of existing office space on the campus with cutting-edge updates and design strategies, fostering modern innovation and collaboration in engaging workspaces.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Freshpet and the Township of Bedminster on our shared vision for supporting local economic growth and contributing to the broader community,” Cocoziello said. “Our joint efforts aim to build a more dynamic and sustainable environment for everyone involved.”
Jeff Garibaldi of The Garibaldi Group represented Freshpet. ConnectOne Bank provided the construction financing. Gladstone Design, Inc. provided civil engineering and site design, and Iron Hill Construction Management is serving as General Contractor.
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