The reopening of a closed manufacturing site in Pittston is set to revitalize the local economy and offer opportunities to former employees of Joriki Beverages, which ceased operations earlier this year.
The Shapiro Administration is making significant strides in attracting major investments to Pennsylvania, following the historic $20 billion deal secured with Amazon, marking the largest private sector investment in the state’s history.
Governor Josh Shapiro has proposed over $160 million in new and expanded investments for the 2025-26 budget to enhance the state’s competitiveness and solidify Pennsylvania’s status as a hub for job creation and economic development.
New Economic Venture in Luzerne County
Harrisburg, PA — Governor Josh Shapiro announced the establishment of Pittston Co-Packers Corp.’s first U.S. beverage production facility, which will inject $30 million into the local economy and create at least 226 full-time jobs in Luzerne County over the next three years. This initiative is supported by a state investment exceeding $1 million.
The company has taken over the equipment and lease of the former Joriki Beverages site at 575 Research Drive, which closed in January 2025. Pittston Co-Packers Corp. will produce beverages for leading U.S. brands, maintaining the contracts previously held by Joriki, and will offer employment to its former workforce.
“This project is a win for workers, a win for Pittston, and a win for Pennsylvania,” stated Governor Shapiro. “By choosing Pennsylvania for its first U.S. beverage production operation, Pittston Co-Packers is bringing new energy to a shuttered facility, creating hundreds of good-paying jobs, and helping drive economic growth in Luzerne County. My Administration is proud to support investments like this that strengthen our local communities, grow our manufacturing sector, and position Pennsylvania as a national leader in innovation and job creation. Pennsylvania is open for business.”
State Support and Future Prospects
Pittston Co-Packers Corp. has been awarded a funding proposal from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), which includes a $1 million PA First grant and a $76,100 WEDnetPA grant for worker training.
“Pittston Co-Packers Corp.’s commitment to investing in our Commonwealth and providing new job opportunities to the people of northeast Pennsylvania is exactly why we’re supporting this project,” said DCED Secretary Rick Siger. “Since day one, the Shapiro Administration has focused on making strategic investments like this one that bring millions back into the local economy and help revitalize the surrounding community.”
Pittston Co-Packers Corp. is a new subsidiary of Eastroc Beverage Group Co., Ltd., specializing in beverage production and co-packing services.
“Pittston Co-Packers is excited to become part of the Luzerne County community and contribute to the revitalization of this important facility,” said Christopher John Reed, CEO of Pittston Co-Packers, and John P. Holzemer, Co-CEO of Pittston Co-Packers. “The project aims to generate lasting economic value, support local workforce development, and foster strong community ties. This marks a meaningful step in building a long-term presence and partnership in the region.”
Strategic Economic Development Efforts
This project was facilitated by Governor Shapiro’s BusinessPA team, a group of economic development experts dedicated to aiding businesses in Pennsylvania through tailored advice, strategic alliances, and financial support. The team aims to facilitate long-term growth and success for companies in Pennsylvania.
Since taking office, the Shapiro Administration has secured over $25.2 billion in private investments, resulting in the creation of nearly 11,000 jobs.
From the outset, Governor Shapiro has prioritized economic development, establishing the first Economic Development Strategy in nearly two decades, securing funding for site development, main streets, small businesses, and accelerating the Commonwealth’s permitting and certification processes.
Governor Shapiro’s Economic Plan
The Shapiro Administration is building on its achievements through Governor Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposal, which includes more than $160 million in new and expanded investments as part of the 10-year Economic Development Strategy, enhancing Pennsylvania’s competitiveness. The plan includes:
- $12.5 million allocated to WEDnetPA to expand and address workforce gaps
- $2 million for Career Connect to foster internships at Pennsylvania companies
- $10 million for AdvancePA tax credits to create quality jobs statewide
- $3 million for the Marketing to Attract Business program to enhance business attraction and retention
- Accelerating Corporate Net Income Tax (CNIT) reductions by two years, decreasing the rate annually by 0.75 percent
# # #
Read More Here
