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Berner International Expands Manufacturing Facility in Pennsylvania

Work in progress at Berner International's new manufacturing facility expansion.

News Summary

Berner International, based in New Castle, Pennsylvania, is expanding its manufacturing facility by 55,000 square feet. This project, which began with a groundbreaking ceremony on June 13, 2025, aims to create 74 new jobs over the next three years and invest $15.4 million into the local economy. Supported by state grants and loans, the expansion will double production capacity, enhance logistics, and position the company to meet growing global demand for air curtains while contributing significantly to Lawrence County’s economic development.

Pennsylvania—Berner International, a New Castle-based company renowned for its design and manufacture of high-performance air curtains, is embarking on a significant expansion project that promises to boost production capabilities and create jobs in Lawrence County. The company intends to enlarge its manufacturing facility by 55,000 square feet, facilitating increased production capacity and improved logistical operations.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion took place on June 13, 2025, marking the beginning of a project that is anticipated to generate at least 74 new jobs over the next three years and inject $15.4 million into the local economy. The expansion is strategically designed to enhance Berner International’s ability to meet growing global demand for air curtains, leveraging advanced manufacturing technologies that will be introduced as part of the project.

The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) is supporting the project through a series of financial grants and loans. This assistance includes a $250,000 WEDnetPA grant designated for worker training, a $575,000 Pennsylvania First grant, and a $2.4 million loan from the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority. These financial resources are aimed at ensuring that Berner International can successfully navigate the expansion while equipping its workforce with the necessary training and skills.

The involvement of Governor Josh Shapiro’s BusinessPA team further underscores the state’s commitment to fostering growth and sustainability among Pennsylvania-based businesses. The collaborative effort between Berner International and state officials is designed to ensure that the expansion not only strengthens the company but also bolsters the community and economy of Lawrence County.

Berner International has been a fixture in New Castle for nearly 70 years, showcasing a legacy of innovation and manufacturing excellence. This upcoming expansion is set to potentially double the company’s manufacturing space and increase production capacity by 150%, which reflects Berner’s dedication to enhancing operational efficiency while addressing customer needs in an evolving market.

As Berner International moves forward with this expansion, the company’s leadership has expressed optimism about the impact this project will have on workforce development and economic growth within the region. By investing in both physical infrastructure and workforce training, Berner is positioning itself as a leader in the air curtain industry while contributing significantly to Lawrence County’s economy and employment landscape.

This strategic expansion reinforces Berner International’s role not only as a key player in the manufacturing sector but also as an active participant in the community’s developmental goals. The combination of increased production capacity and job creation is poised to yield positive outcomes for all stakeholders involved in this ambitious project.