Hershey's $300M Plant Upgrade Powers PA Chocolate Legacy

HERSHEY, Pa. — The Hershey Company marked a historic milestone by opening its $300 million West Hershey facility expansion, dubbed the world’s most technologically advanced chocolate making plant. Located less than two miles from Milton Hershey’s original 1905 chocolate factory, the 340,000-square-foot addition features proprietary technology, including high-speed lines capable of producing more than 70 million Hershey’s Kisses per day, Hershey Bars, Hershey’s Syrup and Rolo candies.[1][3][5] This project, the largest manufacturing investment in Pennsylvania in two decades, infused $70 million into the local economy during construction and created over 300 jobs.[1] As part of Project Next Century, the initiative modernizes Hershey’s global supply chain for enhanced efficiency and future growth. The plant incorporates automated, real-time diagnostics and robotics for 24/7 operations, ensuring consistent quality and agility for new products.[1][3][6] About 700 employees underwent specialized training to operate the high-tech environment, upholding traditions established since the original West Hershey plant opened in 1993.[6] The expansion cements Hershey’s role as a Pennsylvania economic powerhouse, projecting more than $1 billion in contributions over five years through payroll, supplier contracts and spending.[1][3] As the company’s largest capital outlay and the biggest direct investment by a food manufacturer in the state in 20 years, it positions Hershey for sustained dominance in confectionery while bolstering the Dauphin County community.[1]