Keurig Dr Pepper to open new facility in Lehigh Valley

Gov. Tom Wolf announced Monday that Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) will open a new facility and create 378 new full-time jobs at a former Kraft-Heinz site in the Lehigh Valley.

“My administration has been committed to finding the right company to utilize this site, and we are proud that Keurig Dr Pepper has agreed to expand its operations and create new jobs in the commonwealth,” Gov. Wolf said. “Today’s announcement is great news for the Lehigh Valley region.”

The 1,541,280 square-foot manufacturing, warehouse, and distribution facility will be located in Upper Macungie Township, Lehigh County. The project includes leasehold improvements, building infrastructure costs, acquisition of equipment, computer equipment and software, furniture, and training. KDP will invest at least $219.7 million into the project and has committed to creating at least 378 new, full-time jobs over the next three years.

“KDP is focused on building an integrated, best-in-class manufacturing network that supports the production of all beverages in all categories,” Fernando Cortes, KDP chief supply chain officer, said. “Our new facility in Allentown and additional supply chain investments in existing facilities support our vision for providing a beverage for every consumer. We are excited to become part of the Allentown community as we continue to invest in new and exciting opportunities for growth.”

The Department of Community and Economic Development provided KDP with a funding proposal for a $1.5 million Pennsylvania First grant, $170,100 in WEDnetPA funding for worker training, and $1.134 million in Job Creation Tax Credits to be distributed upon creation of the new jobs. The Governor’s Action Team coordinated the project.

“We welcome Keurig Dr Pepper to the large cluster of national food, beverage, and pet food producers that call the Lehigh Valley home,” Don Cunningham, president and CEO of the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation, said. “With the growing demand in the Lehigh Valley market, we had little doubt that the Kraft property would be quickly reused after its closure due to the Heinz merger. We are grateful for the support of the state, the township, and the Lehigh County Authority to help make the deal possible.”