HARRISBURG, PA — Governor Josh Shapiro recently announced a significant $3.5 million investment to support the expansion of Taylor Chip, a renowned cookie manufacturer based in Lancaster County. This substantial financial infusion is aimed at facilitating a $15.1 million expansion project for the company, which is set to create at least 35 new full-time jobs and retain an additional 23 positions across the state.
Taylor Chip will expand its operations by constructing a new 25,000-square-foot facility at its current location on Columbia Avenue in West Hempfield Township. This expansion not only enhances the company’s cookie production capacity but also introduces new ice cream manufacturing capabilities, with a commitment to using locally sourced dairy. This aligns with Governor Shapiro’s Economic Development Strategy, which prioritizes growth in the agricultural sector.
Governor Shapiro underscored the significance of this investment, stating, “Since day one, my Administration has prioritized making meaningful investments to help position Pennsylvania as an economic leader and grow our agriculture sector.” He emphasized that Taylor Chip’s success embodies the entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Pennsylvania, highlighting the critical role local businesses play in driving economic development, job creation, and community strengthening.
The financial support for Taylor Chip includes a proposal from the Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) featuring a $2,625,000 Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) loan and a $470,076 grant extension under the Pennsylvania Dairy Investment Program initially awarded in 2019. This move reflects the state’s commitment to supporting businesses that enhance Pennsylvania’s agricultural prowess, which contributes $132.5 billion annually to the state’s economy.
DCED Secretary Rick Siger remarked, “The Shapiro Administration is committed to investing in companies like Taylor Chip that are helping bolster agriculture in Pennsylvania.” He reiterated the administration’s focus on agriculture as one of the five key industries in the state’s Economic Development Strategy.
Further supporting this expansion, Taylor Chip has applied for a $400,000 grant through the Department of Agriculture’s Resilient Food System Infrastructure (RFSI) program. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding noted, “Helping food manufacturers like Taylor Chip expand in Pennsylvania creates new opportunities for the local farms that supply their ingredients,” demonstrating the mutually beneficial relationship fostered by such investments.
Founded in 2018 by Doug and Sara Taylor, Taylor Chip has rapidly grown to encompass seven locations across Pennsylvania, including recent expansions into Philadelphia. The company also boasts nationwide shipping of its products. Doug Taylor expressed gratitude for the partnership with the state, highlighting the Shapiro Administration’s efforts to nurture entrepreneurship within Pennsylvania.
This expansion project is facilitated by the Governor’s Action Team, a group of seasoned economic development professionals working directly with businesses to attract and expand operations within the state. As Taylor Chip embarks on this new chapter, the investment signifies a broader commitment to enhancing Pennsylvania’s standing as a hub for economic innovation and agricultural excellence.
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