Pennsylvania Gov. Edward G. Rendell recently announced a major financial incentives package to help East Penn Manufacturing Co. expand its Berks County facilities, creating at least 500 new jobs within three years and retaining 4,828 existing positions.

East Penn is a leading manufacturer of high quality lead-acid batteries and accessories for the commercial, marine, automotive, telecommunications, industrial and stationary markets. With more than 490 acres, East Penn claims to have the largest, most modern single-site battery manufacturing facility in the world. The company was also named one of Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” in 2006.

Gov. Rendell said the state’s $21.4 million investment in the first phase of East Penn Manufacturing Co.’s plans will leverage $108 million in private investment toward the $130 million project, boosting the regional economy and creating new opportunities for employees and residents.

The state grants and loans will help East Penn to expand its wastewater treatment facility, which will allow for the expansion of its entire operation.

The first phase of the project includes construction of a new battery plant, a new distribution facility and related infrastructure. The company will also expand its existing battery plants and health and safety center.

The Greater Berks Development Fund supported East Penn’s efforts to obtain a financial package of up to $21,416,800 from the commonwealth that includes a $6,416,800 loan through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST); $8 million through the PennWorks program ($5 million loan / $3 million grant); $3 million in Infrastructure and Facilities Improvement Program (IFIP) grants; a $2 million loan through the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA); a $500,000 grant through the Opportunity Grant Program (OGP); $500,000 in Customized Job Training Funds; and $1 million in Job Creation Tax Credits.

Citizens Bank has also approved a loan of up to $10 million for East Penn through the Citizens Job Bank program, which offers low-interest loans to companies that commit to creating or expanding jobs in Pennsylvania.

“East Penn has experienced steady growth in Berks County since the company was founded in 1946,” said East Penn founder and chairman DeLight Breidegam. “Since then, we have invested heavily not only in the buildings and machinery you see today, but in the company’s most valuable resource -- the people of East Penn. Their commitment to quality, innovation, and service is unmatched and at the heart of what makes this company and its products special.

State support for this project was coordinated by the Governor’s Action Team, economic development professionals who serve as a single point-of-contact for businesses considering locating or expanding in Pennsylvania. The team works with domestic and international businesses consultants on projects that offer significant investment and job creation opportunities.

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