Keystone Today

Gov. Tom Wolf (D-PA) revealed in late August that West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (West) is expanding its facility in Jersey Shore and creating 225 new, full-time jobs.

West is a leading global manufacturer in the design and production of containment and delivery systems for injectable medicines, according to a news release from the governor's office.

The project will expand the facility, located in Lycoming County, by increasing production capacity and floor space, the news release noted. The back office at the company's corporate headquarters in Exton and administrative, research, and development services will also be expanded. Through the second part of the project, the company will retain 1,385 existing jobs statewide.

"West clearly recognizes the advantages of doing business in Pennsylvania, and I'm pleased they will continue growing right here in the commonwealth," Wolf said in the news release. "Our strong manufacturing base gave us a competitive advantage over other states for this expansion project. It's always great to see homegrown companies – particularly a global manufacturer like West – continue to thrive and succeed in Pennsylvania."

West was founded in 1923 in Pennsylvania; approximately 10,000 team members work at 50 sites worldwide, according to the news release. The company provides high-quality injectable solutions and services and ensures safe, effective containment and delivery of life-saving and life-enhancing medicine. 

West will invest $60 million into the project, the news release noted. Jobs will be created and retained over the next five years.

"We are pleased to continue our growth in Lycoming County, which will help support our mission of improving patient lives around the globe," Gabe Hansen, site director at West's Jersey Shore facility, said in the news release. "I'm proud of our team members and the work they do every day. West has been a long-time partner in this community, and we look forward to being able to provide more job opportunities as a result of this expansion and are excited to contribute to a continued bright future for Lycoming County."

Jason Fink, president and CEO of the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, said the chamber is excited for the community. He thanked West and local elected officials for their work in making the expansion a reality.

"This expansion entails an investment of approximately $65 million into the local plant and will add another 125 family-sustaining jobs there," Fink said. "... Thank you also to the Governor's Action Team in their efforts to win jobs for Pennsylvania and continuing to be the partner with us in growing our economy."