Plastic jar and bottle manufacturer Schless Bottles will relocate from northern New Jersey to Allentown, Pennsylvania, Gov. Josh Shapiro said Thursday.
The manufacturer will invest more than $7.5 million in building acquisition and renovation, the Shapiro’s office said, and will create nearly 100 new, full-time manufacturing jobs in the state over the next three years.
“Pennsylvania is a leader in manufacturing across different industries, and I’m thrilled to welcome Schless Bottles to the Commonwealth,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “Thanks to this investment, Schless Bottles will create nearly 100 jobs here in Allentown, creating real opportunity for more hardworking Pennsylvanians and their families. Their decision to relocate to Pennsylvania and create jobs here in Lehigh Valley should send a clear message to businesses all across the country – Pennsylvania is open for business and my Administration is committed to helping businesses here grow and thrive.
Schless received a funding proposal from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) for a $330,000 Pennsylvania First grant and a $196,000 grant to train new workers, the governor’s office said.
“I’d like to thank Governor Shapiro, the Governor’s Action Team and the people here in Allentown for helping to make this relocation happen,” said Mark Schlesinger, Schless Bottle’s executive director. “We look forward to being part of the Allentown community for many years to come, and are excited to bring nearly 100 new jobs to the area.”
Schless Bottles produces more than 250 million PET bottles annually and has been focused on producing premium plastic jars and bottles. The company is relocating to Pennsylvania to take advantage of more space to expand its manufacturing operation, as well as the Lehigh Valley’s workforce and proximity to major distribution markets, the company said.