DrinkPAK to Anchor Philadelphia’s Bellwether District with Major Investment
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is making a notable $2 million investment to foster the growth of DrinkPAK, a leading canned beverage manufacturer, in Philadelphia. This move is set to generate 174 new jobs over the next three years, marking a significant step for the region’s economic development.
DrinkPAK’s decision to expand into Pennsylvania comes amidst strong competition from other states. As part of Governor Josh Shapiro’s PA Fast Track initiative, this expansion will serve as a cornerstone for the Bellwether District, an ambitious commercial redevelopment project in South and Southwest Philadelphia.
Governor Shapiro emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, stating, “My Administration competed aggressively against other states to secure this major investment from DrinkPAK — the first anchor tenant for the Bellwether District that will create tens of thousands of jobs and supercharge the economy of Southeastern Pennsylvania.”
DrinkPAK will establish its first Pennsylvania-based manufacturing facility by leasing a 1.4 million-square-foot facility in the Bellwether District, which spans 74.8 acres. This facility will become the company’s flagship on the East Coast, tapping into the district’s potential as a hub for economic innovation and manufacturing.
The expansion is backed by a $2 million Pennsylvania First grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), with potential eligibility for the Manufacturing Tax Credit program. Located in a Keystone Opportunity Zone, the Bellwether District offers DrinkPAK additional tax incentives through 2043.
Rick Siger, DCED Secretary, noted the project’s significance, stating, “This project is a tremendous win for the Bellwether District, as well as the Commonwealth’s manufacturing industry — one of the important sectors we’re focusing on in our ten-year economic development strategy.”
Founded in 2020, DrinkPAK is already a prominent name in the canned beverage market, offering extensive capacity and format flexibility. Nate Patena, CEO of DrinkPAK, remarked, “Our 1.4 million-square-foot Philadelphia location will continue to solidify DrinkPAK’s position as North America’s premier canned beverage manufacturer.”
The Bellwether District, a project by HRP Group, exemplifies sustainable development and connects strategically to key infrastructure, including Philadelphia International Airport and major highways. Roberto E. Perez, CEO of HRP Group, hailed DrinkPAK’s decision as a validation of Philadelphia’s competitive advantages.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker added, “DrinkPAK choosing to build its flagship East Coast facility in Philadelphia at the Bellwether District, bringing high-quality manufacturing and construction jobs to our City in a very competitive process, is proof that our strategy is working.”
This initiative is part of Governor Shapiro’s broader strategy to streamline economic development in Pennsylvania through the PA Permit Fast Track Program, aiming to expedite permitting processes for significant projects.
As Pennsylvania continues to attract major investments, it strengthens its position as a thriving economic hub, supported by a robust business climate recognized nationally. The state’s business-friendly policies have already drawn nearly $32.5 billion in private investments, creating over 18,000 jobs.
Pennsylvania’s Business Climate and Growing Economy are Getting National Recognition
- Pennsylvania is the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy, according to a report from Axios. This recognition reflects Pennsylvania’s robust and competitive economic environment.
- Area Development recently ranked Pennsylvania among the top 20 “Best States for Business,” distinguishing it as the only Northeastern state on the list. The state also secured a top 10 spot for “Site Readiness Programs.”
- Site Selection Magazine named Pennsylvania one of the top business climates in the nation, placing it 11th in the 2025 Business Climate Rankings, a significant rise from the previous year.
Unleashing Pennsylvania’s Economic Potential, Streamlining Permitting to Drive Economic Growth, and Supporting Pennsylvania’s Small Businesses
- Governor Shapiro has successfully attracted nearly $32.5 billion in private-sector investments, creating over 18,000 jobs statewide. This includes Amazon’s historic $20 billion investment to construct new AI and cloud computing campuses.
- By launching Pennsylvania’s first comprehensive economic development strategy in nearly 20 years, Governor Shapiro has prioritized government efficiency, reducing permit backlogs and investing $550 million in site preparation and small business support.
- The proposed 2025-26 budget advances permitting reform, funds critical agency staff, and promotes investment in Pennsylvania’s infrastructure and main streets.
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