LANCASTER, PA – In a significant boost to Pennsylvania’s economic landscape, Universal Ingredients Shank’s has unveiled its $30.5 million expansion in East Hempfield Township, an initiative celebrated by state officials and community leaders. This development not only underlines Shank’s historical significance in Lancaster County, where it has thrived for 124 years, but also highlights the strategic economic vision of Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration.
Announced by Governor Shapiro in May 2023, the expansion stands as a testament to Pennsylvania’s efforts to foster business growth and sustain economic vitality. The project promises to create 83 new jobs while retaining 234 existing positions, thereby reinforcing the local job market and catalyzing economic activity in the region. This initiative will expand Shank’s capabilities in liquid and dry manufacturing, packaging, and refrigerated storage — a move poised to enhance its operational capacity and product offerings.
Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger, representing the Shapiro administration, highlighted the significance of this expansion during the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday. “Shank’s has a remarkable, 124-year history in Lancaster County and the Shapiro Administration is proud to support the company’s continued growth here in Pennsylvania,” he stated. This aligns with the administration’s broader strategy to attract new businesses while nurturing homegrown enterprises, positioning Pennsylvania as a formidable economic leader.
Shank’s prominence as a leading producer of vanilla extract is complemented by its diverse portfolio exceeding 2,400 products, ranging from flavors and botanical extracts to sauces. With this expansion, the company not only strengthens its foothold in the global market but also sets the stage for future innovations in food safety and processing technologies.
Senator Ryan Aument emphasized the broader economic ripple effects this expansion is likely to generate. “When businesses come to our communities, our residents benefit from more job opportunities and increased local economic activity across numerous sectors,” Aument noted, underscoring the exponential impact on ancillary industries.
The project, supported by a substantial funding proposal from the DCED, includes a $332,000 Pennsylvania First grant and a $166,000 workforce development grant. These funds, alongside the strategic guidance of the Governor’s Action Team, have been pivotal in realizing this ambitious project.
George C. Freeman, President and CEO of Universal Corporation, expressed optimism about the expansion. “Our campus expansion will allow us to enhance our tea, coffee, and other botanical extracts as well as our customized blending capabilities through innovative solutions such as aseptic packaging,” Freeman stated, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of state and local authorities in facilitating this growth.
The expansion of Shank’s headquarters is more than an infrastructural enhancement; it is a cornerstone of Governor Shapiro’s ten-year Economic Development Strategy aimed at harnessing Pennsylvania’s inherent strengths to rejuvenate the state’s economy. John Biemiller from the Economic Development Company of Lancaster County praised the investment, noting that such commitments ensure Lancaster’s food manufacturing facilities remain at the forefront of North American food production.
As Pennsylvania continues to cultivate a conducive environment for economic growth, Shank’s expansion symbolizes a strategic step towards achieving sustainable development and prosperity for its residents. This project not only fortifies the economic fabric of Lancaster County but also exemplifies the successful synergy between state governance and private enterprise in fostering long-term economic resilience.
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