Shank’s Extracts expanding in Lancaster County

Shank’s Extracts LLC, a specialty ingredient, flavors and botanical extracts company, plans to expand its East Hempfield Township, Lancaster County, headquarters.

The project is expected to cost $30.5 million, and create at least 83 new jobs and retain 234 positions statewide within the next three years.

Work will include additional liquid and dry manufacturing, packaging, and refrigerated storage, and the installation of other manufacturing capabilities.

“The expansion of our facilities at Shank’s Extracts will enable us to enhance and expand the product offerings of our plant-based ingredients platform,” George C. Freeman, III, Universal Corp. chairman, president and CEO, said. “Through this platform, we provide a variety of value-added manufacturing processes to produce high-quality, specialty vegetable-and fruit-based ingredients, and we appreciate the support and partnership of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in this endeavor.”

Universal Corp., a global business-to-business agri-products supplier to consumer product manufacturers, has owned Shank’s Extracts since 2021.

The Department of Community and Economic Development submitted a $332,000 Pennsylvania First grant and a $166,000 work force development grant to train workers.

Founded in 1899, the company manufactures and distributes globally more than 2,400 products, including botanical extracts, colors, emulsions, flavors, and sauces. It is a top producer of vanilla extract in the United States.