October 2/New York/PRNewswire -- Artisanal Brands Inc., a marketer and distributor of specialty, artisanal and farmstead cheeses and other specialty food products, signed a long-term lease on a new Artisanal Cheese Center in New York City with cheese aging caves,  production and office facilities, as well as the first retail outlet to be owned and managed by the company. 

The new location, The Falchi Building in Long Island City, Queens, is owned and operated by Jamestown, a nationwide real estate investor and manager of major commercial properties, including the successful Chelsea Market in Manhattan.

Daniel W. Dowe, president and chief executive officer of Artisanal, said, "Our search for a new location took two years to complete as we sought a multiple-use facility that could accommodate our entire operation and provide us with a retail outlet.  This will be the first retail location operated by Artisanal and will give us a unique opportunity to showcase our premium-quality products and add a new revenue stream. Long Island City and bordering neighborhoods are vibrant communities that we look forward to serving. The entire Jamestown team has been very supportive and we are pleased to have a role in making this property an exciting venue."  

Located just a short walk from Court Square, The Falchi Building occupies a full city block at the epicenter of robust development in Long Island City. Jamestown has completed a multi-million dollar capital improvement program for the historic 657,660-square-foot, mixed-use office building. Upgrades include a facade and lobby renovation, along with new furniture, art installations and a Citi Bike share station, providing unrivaled amenities surrounding offices and institutions in the area.