NEW CASTLE, Pa. – Berner International announced plans Wednesday to double the company’s manufacturing footprint in the city.
The expansion will add 55,000 square feet for production and 70 new jobs to meet growing global demand.
Berner commemorated the investment announcement with a groundbreaking ceremony, with nearly 100 attendees including Rick Siger, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development; Ben Bush, executive director of Forward Lawrence; Berner’s executive team and board members; and members of the community.
The total investment is more than $15 million over the life of the project, roughly four to five years. The Pennsylvania DCED has committed support through the PA First
Grant program, Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority financing and workforce development incentives representing about 30% of the overall investment.
Construction will begin this summer and is expected to conclude in early 2026.
Operations will begin as early as the second quarter of next year.
“Expanding our manufacturing capabilities in New Castle, Pa., directly serves our customers’ needs,” said Mikael Berner, board chairman. “This investment in advanced manufacturing ensures we can meet growing demand for our innovative, sustainable solutions while creating a stronger future for our customers, employees and community.”
The expanded facility will support a 150% increase in production capacity, ensuring Berner can meet rising customer demand across North America, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East, a news release from the company states.
As operations scale, the company plans to continue investing in employee training and upskilling programs, including apprenticeships, to ensure its workforce is prepared for a more automated and technically advanced manufacturing future.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to support the expansion of a Pa.-based business that has called New Castle home for nearly 70 years,” Siger said. “This project is going to boost the economy in Lawrence County and bring more quality jobs to the area. We look forward to another 70 years of growth and success for Berner.”
The expansion will incorporate sustainable design elements, including LED lighting and energy-efficient HVAC and air movement systems. This expansion will allow for future automation and advanced manufacturing integration.
“Our growth is driven by our customers and our people,” Berner said. “We’re proud to bring stable, high-quality careers to Western Pennsylvania and to continue investing in the skilled talent and smart manufacturing systems that make Berner the industry leader.”
Berner was recently recognized by the Green Building Alliance with the 2025 Enterprise Award for its commitment to sustainability through its focus on sustainable manufacturing, which includes a rooftop solar array, operational waste reduction and producing products that save energy and create healthy, comfortable environments.
Pictured at top: Rick Siger and Mikael Berner.