What's Happening?
Governor Josh Shapiro announced that the Shapiro Administration has secured a $63.2 million investment from SendCutSend, Inc. to establish its first Pennsylvania manufacturing facility in Luzerne County. The state is contributing $3 million to this project,
which is projected to create 309 new jobs over the next three years. SendCutSend, a custom manufacturer specializing in computer numerical control (CNC), laser-cut metal, and wood products, will lease and improve approximately 200,000 square feet of manufacturing space at 535 Research Drive in Pittston for its new CNC machining and laser cutting operations. Pennsylvania successfully outbid Ohio to secure this expansion project. This investment aligns with Governor Shapiro’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy, which aims to position Pennsylvania as a national leader in economic development, innovation, and job creation, with manufacturing identified as a key industry.
Why It's Important?
This significant investment underscores Pennsylvania's growing competitiveness in attracting manufacturing businesses and creating employment opportunities. The creation of 309 new jobs in Luzerne County will provide economic benefits to the region, offering good-paying positions and boosting the local manufacturing sector. The state's proactive approach, including a $3 million Pennsylvania First grant and encouragement for SendCutSend to apply for additional tax savings through programs like the Manufacturing Tax Credit (MTC) and the Qualified Manufacturing Innovation and Reinvestment Deduction (QMIRD), demonstrates a commitment to fostering business growth. This move also highlights Pennsylvania's success in competing with neighboring states like Ohio for major industrial projects, reinforcing its status as a favorable location for business expansion in the Northeast. The Shapiro Administration's broader strategy of attracting over $43 billion in private sector investments and creating nearly 29,000 jobs since taking office indicates a sustained effort to strengthen the state's economy.
What's Next?
The new SendCutSend facility in Pittston is expected to become operational, leading to the creation of 309 jobs over the next three years. The Shapiro Administration will continue to implement its 10-year Economic Development Strategy, focusing on attracting further investments and supporting key industries like manufacturing. The Governor’s 2026-27 budget includes plans to disperse $125 million through the Innovate in PA 2.0 program, which will support promising startups, fund clinical trials in life sciences, and enhance the Commonwealth’s innovation network. This ongoing commitment aims to ensure Pennsylvania remains competitive and continues to foster economic growth and job creation across the state. The success of this project could also serve as a model for attracting other businesses looking to expand or establish operations in the region.
Beyond the Headlines
The successful attraction of SendCutSend to Pennsylvania reflects a broader trend of states actively competing for manufacturing and technology-driven investments. This competition often involves significant financial incentives and strategic planning, highlighting the role of state governments in shaping economic landscapes. The emphasis on digital manufacturing, CNC machining, and laser cutting operations points to the evolving nature of the manufacturing sector, which increasingly relies on advanced technologies. This shift necessitates a skilled workforce, potentially driving demand for technical education and training programs in the state. Furthermore, the ability to offer one-day shipping to Northeast customers, as noted by SendCutSend's CEO, underscores the importance of logistical advantages and infrastructure in business location decisions, impacting regional supply chains and consumer markets.
