Last updated on June 13th, 2024
The Hershey Co. has announced a $104 million expansion in Augusta County, Virginia, that is expected to create 65 new jobs.
The 111,000-s.f. expansion of the existing facility will increase production capabilities. The expanded facility will manufacture penuche and peanut cream, which will be distributed to other Hershey facilities on the East Coast.
The company currently employs more than 1,000 people in Virginia, with the majority of those jobs located at its manufacturing facility in Augusta County.
“The Commonwealth of Virginia and Augusta County have been part of Hershey’s success for more than 35 years,” said Susanna Zhu, VP U.S. Supply Chain, The Hershey Company. “We are pleased to build on this partnership with our plant expansion and continue to make Stuarts Draft a key to delighting consumers across the United States and around the world with our iconic products.”
“For more than thirty years, The Hershey Company has continued to grow in Augusta County, creating hundreds of jobs and setting the bar for a thriving food and beverage industry cluster in the Shenandoah Valley,” said Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam.
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Augusta County and the Shenandoah Valley Partnership to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Northam approved a $600,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Augusta County with the project. Governor Northam also approved a $400,000 performance-based grant from the Virginia Investment Performance program, an incentive that encourages capital investment by existing Virginia companies. The company is eligible to receive Sales and Use tax exemptions on manufacturing equipment, as well as a Major Business Facilities job tax credit for new, full-time jobs created.
“The Hershey Company’s expansion is an exciting win for Augusta County and Virginia, and a true testament to the Shenandoah Valley’s ability to attract and retain high caliber companies,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball.
“In Augusta County, chocolate and peanuts mean jobs,” said Carolyn Bragg, member of the Augusta County Board of Supervisors. “Hershey’s confectionary treats mean our citizens are offered opportunities to begin and grow careers, support families, and invest time in a company that’s committed to our community.”
The Hershey Co., celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2019, is headquartered in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Hershey has approximately 16,500 employees around the world and has more than 80 brands that drive more than $7.8 billion in annual revenues.
