The Evonik Corporation, a German specialty chemicals company, will expand its technology and business capacities at its current location in Trexlertown, Lehigh County.
The project is expected to create 50 new high-paying jobs and retain the company’s existing 277 jobs across the state.
“Evonik’s expansion shows that the commonwealth is well-equipped for companies looking to grow their R&D capabilities,” Gov. Tom Wolf said. “Additionally, the 50 new family-sustaining jobs will boost the local economy. I applaud Evonik for committing to grow right here in Pennsylvania.”
Evonik will purchase its leased manufacturing facility and build a new business and technology center, which will include more than 50 specialized laboratories for new product development and testing. Evonik expects to invest at least $50 million into the project.
Evonik considered potential locations in other states but ultimately selected its current location in Trexlertown for expansion.
“Retaining great employers is as important as recruiting new ones,” Don Cunningham, president & CEO of the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation (LVEDC), said. “This decision is a vote of confidence in the Lehigh Valley and in the region’s ability to attract the top-tier talent employed at Evonik.”
Evonik received a funding proposal from the Department of Community and Economic Development for $150,000 in Job Creation Tax Credits (JCTC) and a $2.5 million grant from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program. The Governor’s Action Team coordinated the project.
Evonik first moved to the Lehigh Valley in January 2017 after completing a $3.8 billion acquisition of Air Products’ performance materials business.