US Durum Products Relocates to Harrisburg with a Boost from Pennsylvania
Harrisburg, PA – In a significant economic development, Pennsylvania has secured an $8,036,000 investment from US Durum Products LTD, a leading couscous manufacturer, to relocate and expand its operations to Harrisburg. This initiative, supported by a $140,000 Commonwealth investment, is set to modernize the company’s operations and create 64 jobs over the next three years.
US Durum, originally based in Lancaster County, is moving to a historic manufacturing site in Harrisburg. This expansion includes new equipment and modern technologies to enhance production capacity and streamline the supply chain. Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized Pennsylvania’s favorable business climate, stating, “Pennsylvania is one of the top states for business and is the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy.”
Local and State Leaders Celebrate Economic Growth
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, alongside other state officials and local leaders, celebrated this development, underscoring Harrisburg’s potential as an economic hub. Lt. Governor Davis remarked, “Today’s announcement is another prime example that places like here in Harrisburg can be economic engines for our future.”
The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has extended a funding proposal to US Durum, including a $100,000 Pennsylvania First grant and a $40,000 WEDnetPA grant aimed at workforce training. Secretary Rick Siger noted, “Supporting Pennsylvania’s key industries is essential to drive long-term economic growth.”
A Commitment to Manufacturing and Agriculture
Manufacturing and agriculture are pivotal sectors in Pennsylvania, contributing over $116 billion and $132.5 billion annually. These industries are central to Governor Shapiro’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy. The strategy aims to enhance the state’s economic competitiveness and streamline permitting processes to encourage business growth.
US Durum, founded in 1993, has grown to become North America’s leading couscous manufacturer, diversifying its product range to include orzo, rice and quinoa mixes, and other Mediterranean blends. CEO Said Chergui expressed gratitude for the support from DCED and the Shapiro Administration, stating, “We are happy to be here and look forward to being a strong part of the local community for many years to come.”
Pennsylvania’s Economic Momentum
Pennsylvania’s economy is gaining national recognition. According to a report from Axios, Pennsylvania is the only Northeastern state with a growing economy. Additionally, Area Development ranked Pennsylvania among the top 20 “Best States for Business.”
Governor Shapiro’s administration has attracted nearly $31.6 billion in private-sector investment, creating over 16,700 jobs. The administration’s focus on cutting red tape and streamlining processes is evident in Amazon’s initial $20 billion investment to build AI and cloud computing campuses in the state.
The BusinessPA team, a group of economic development professionals, coordinated the US Durum expansion project, providing guidance and resources to ensure the company’s successful integration into the Pennsylvania economy.
Read More Here
