Edward Marc Brands to expand

State grants to help with $2.5-million investment, which will create a 50,000-square-foot manufacturing facility and 51 new jobs.

Edward Marc Snappers

Edward Marc Brands Inc., a gourmet chocolates manufacturer, has announced that it will expand its operations to support its newly launched Snappers line — a gourmet, sweet snack made with pretzels, caramel and chocolate.

Edward Marc Brands has entered into a lease of a 50,000-square-foot building in Pittsburgh’s Lawrenceville neighborhood. The company plans to invest more than $2.5 million at the new site, and has also committed to creating at least 51 new jobs and retaining 36 positions over the next three years.

Edward Marc Brands, a premium, boutique-style chocolatier founded by the Edwards family in 1914, is now in its fourth-generation of confectionery production.

The Snappers line has received nationwide media attention on programs such as The Today Show, Good Morning America and Fox Business TV.

The candymaker received a funding proposal from the Department of Community and Economic Development to help with expansion, including a $100,000 Pennsylvania First Program grant that facilitates investment and job creation, $51,000 in job creation tax credits and a $22,950 grant for WEDnetPA that will be used to train the expanding workforce.

The company also was approved to receive a $500,000 loan from the Machinery and Equipment Loan Fund.

“Our family business is built upon innovation and the dedication of hardworking Americans,” says Chris Edwards, ceo of Edward Marc Brands. “We are honored to be recognized as a leader in job creation and food manufacturing in the state of Pennsylvania.

The project was coordinated by the Pennsylvania Governor’s Action Team, an experienced group of economic development professionals who report directly to the governor and work with businesses that are considering locating or expanding in Pennsylvania.

“Pennsylvania is the keystone of American manufacturing, and by partnering with companies like Edward Marc Brands, we are promoting the growth of this job-sustaining industry,” Gov. Tom Corbett says. “I am pleased that we are helping fourth-generation chocolate manufacturers grow where the family tradition started: right here in Pennsylvania.”

Crystal Lindell, Former editor-in-chief of Candy Industry Magazine. While here she has worked on Candy Industry Magazine, Food Engineering Magazine and Food Safety Strategies. She holds a master’s degree in public affairs reporting from the University of Illinois – Springfield and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Western Illinois University. And her favorite breakfast is a cup of espresso and Twix bar.