New Castle-based Berner International, a designer and manufacturer of high-performance air curtains, plans to expand its Lawrence County manufacturing facility by 55,000-square-feet.
Expansion will allow the company to increase production capacity, enhance logistical operations, and introduce advanced manufacturing technologies.
“This expansion is a significant step in Berner’s journey to meeting the global demand for high quality air curtains,” Mikael Berner, Berner chairman of the board, said. “It demonstrates our unwavering commitment to our team, to innovation, and to the advanced manufacturing capabilities that strengthens our leadership in air movement solutions.”
The project, which broke ground on Wednesday, is expected to create at least 74 jobs over the next three years and add $15.4 million to the local economy. Rick Siger, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) secretary, joined Berner’s leadership for the ceremony.
The DCED awarded the company a $250,000 WEDnetPA grant to train workers, a $575,000 Pennsylvania First grant, and a $2.4 million Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority loan.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to support the expansion of a PA-based business that has called New Castle home for nearly 70 years,” Siger said.
Gov. Josh Shapiro’s BusinessPA team coordinated the project. The team, comprised of experienced economic development professionals, helps businesses succeed in Pennsylvania.