Jobs boost in in Augusta County as Hershey announces expansion

The Hershey Company is set to invest $135m to expand its manufacturing operation in Augusta County, Virgina. The company said it will increase production capacity at its existing facility in Stuarts Draft by 90,000 square feet and create 110 new jobs.

“As we work to accelerate Virginia’s economic recovery, existing corporate partners like The Hershey Company are leading the way with new hiring and investment​,” said state governor Ralph Northam.

The Hershey Company, which celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2019, is the leading North American chocolate producer and global snacks company and is headquartered in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Hershey has approximately 16,500 employees around the world with more than 80 brands - including Hershey’s, Reese’s, Kit Kat, Jolly Rancher, IceBreakers, SkinnyPop and Pirate’s Booty - that drive $8bn in annual revenues.

Its Virginia facility is the company’s second-largest plant in the United States and has operated in Augusta County for more than 30 years and employs more than 1,000 people.

“This major expansion is the company’s second in just over a year, and is a strong testament to the Shenandoah Valley’s ability to attract and retain high-caliber manufacturers. We thank Hershey for its continued confidence in Virginia and its people, and look forward to the company’s next chapter of growth in our Commonwealth​,” said Northam.