Governor Josh Shapiro announced Thursday that Schless Bottles, a premium plastic jars and bottles manufacturer, will relocate from its current manufacturing facility in northern New Jersey to Allentown.

The company will invest more than $7.5 million in building acquisition and renovation costs and create 98 new, full-time manufacturing jobs in the Commonwealth within 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.

For its expansion, Schless Bottles received a funding proposal from the Department of Community and Economic Development for a $300,000 Pennsylvania First grant and a $196,000 grant to train new workers.

“Governor Shapiro and I are working hard to make the Commonwealth a leader in innovation, job creation, and economic development - and Schless Bottles’ decision to relocate to Pennsylvania is another great example of how we’re making that happen,” said DCED Secretary Rick Siger.

Schless Bottles produces more than 250 million PET bottles annually and has been focused on manufacturing premium plastic jars and bottles. The company chose to relocate to Pennsylvania because it needed more space to expand its manufacturing operation and to take advantage of the Lehigh Valley’s workforce and proximity to major distribution markets.

Mark Schlesinger, executive director, Schless Bottles.

“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’ relocation was coordinated by the Governor’s Action Team, an experienced group of economic development professionals who report directly to the Governor and work with businesses that are considering locating or expanding in Pennsylvania.?