Il Pastaio to Build $12.5M Pasta Plant, 74 Jobs in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Secures Major Investment from Italian Pasta Manufacturer

In a significant boost to Pennsylvania's economy, the state has triumphed in a multi-state contest to attract Il Pastaio, an Italian pasta manufacturing giant, for its first North American production facility. This development will see an investment of over $12.5 million and the creation of at least 74 full-time jobs in Union County.

Pennsylvania's resilient manufacturing and agriculture sectors played a crucial role in outcompeting New York and New Jersey for this project. The 71,300-square-foot facility will be constructed at the Great Stream Commons business park in Gregg Township, enhancing Il Pastaio's gnocchi production capabilities.

"I’m competitive as hell, and from day one, I’ve made clear that I want Pennsylvania to compete and win on a global scale. Having an Italian company like Il Pastaio recognize that Pennsylvania is the best place to do business proves we’re getting stuff done and delivering real results," stated Governor Josh Shapiro. "Pennsylvania has a strong business climate, a strategic location, and thriving industries for companies ready to grow and succeed."

Il Pastaio, known for its Il Pastaio and Patarò brands, was established in 1983 and operates three manufacturing sites in Italy. The decision to establish a facility in Pennsylvania comes as a response to the growing demand in the U.S. market.

The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has supported Il Pastaio with a funding proposal, including a $111,000 WEDnetPA grant for workforce training and up to $72,200 in tax credits via the Manufacturing Tax Credit Program. The business park's Keystone Opportunity Zone status will also provide substantial tax savings.

"This project is a clear example of why the Shapiro Administration is focusing on the manufacturing and agriculture industries in Pennsylvania’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy," commented DCED Secretary Rick Siger. "Building on the successes of our first two years, we’re going to continue investing in companies like Il Pastaio to help strengthen our key industries, grow our economy, and create real opportunity for Pennsylvanians."

Manufacturing and agriculture are pivotal to Pennsylvania's economy, contributing over $116 billion and $132.5 billion annually, respectively. These sectors are integral to Governor Shapiro’s Economic Development Strategy.

Pierluigi Colombi, CEO of Il Pastaio, expressed enthusiasm for the project: "The opening of this plant is certainly an important step for Il Pastaio, but it also materializes the idea of making our contribution to the integration of the best Italian traditions with the energy and the agro-food culture of the United States."

Local officials are optimistic about the project's impact. "This project is a testament to the power of teamwork and the manufacturing resurgence we’re witnessing across our region, thanks to companies like Il Pastaio," said Shawn McLaughlin, Director of Planning and Economic Development of Union County.

The collaboration between public and private sectors has been instrumental in creating favorable conditions for economic growth. "This success is a direct result of the strong public-private partnerships and collaborative relationships that work together to create the right conditions for investment and smart economic growth," noted Union County Commissioner Jeff Reber.

Lauren Bryson, Executive Director of Focus Central Pennsylvania, added, "Focus Central Pennsylvania and our network of economic development partners are grateful to Il Pastaio for choosing to invest in Central PA for their first manufacturing location in the United States."

This initiative is part of Governor Shapiro's broader strategy, which includes the Economic Development Strategy and significant investments in key industries. The strategy aims to drive innovation, foster economic growth, and enhance workforce development in Pennsylvania.