Published: October 2022
Manufacturing is a thriving industry in Greater Reading, Pennsylvania with a significant multiplier effect that supports a growing supply chain, jobs, and additional sectors. The manufacturing sector in Greater Reading touts:
- 500+ companies
- 30,000+ employees – the largest sector by employment and 17% of total employment in Berks County
- $4.8 Billion GDP – the largest sector by GDP and 22% of Berks County’s annual GDP
- Location Quotient (LQ)* = 2.09
- Strong Manufacturing Sub-Sectors Include:
- Primary Metal – LQ: 9.10
- Electric/Electronics – LQ: 4.75
- Plastics & Rubber Products – LQ: 2.31
- Food – LQ: 1.73
Check out this report on the industry.
*High LQs, a number over 1.0, indicate sectors in a region have high concentrations of employment compared to the national average.
Data is from JobsEQ Q1 2022 Dataset
The manufacturing industry is diverse – from batteries, to plastics, to gymnastics apparel, to food – Greater Reading has it all.
How does the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance support the Manufacturing Industry?
Manufacturing Industry Partnership
The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance manages and facilitates a Manufacturing Industry Partnership (IP). The IP is driven by leaders in the manufacturing industry that have chosen to convene around shared challenges, opportunities and programming. With the support of educational partners and workforce development organizations, this public-private partnership brings all stakeholders to the table to create solutions for sustainable change to ensure economic growth and success.
Financing
The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance can assist Berks County manufacturers with low-interest rate loans through Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority. Loans can be used for:
- Land and building acquisition
- Construction and renovation costs
- Machinery and equipment purchases
Jobs In Greater Reading
We connect employers and employees with available jobs from over 40 sources. Check out the comprehensive, one-stop website for all job listings in the area. We have highlighted the top and growing industries, such as manufacturing, at the top of the page for your navigating ease.
Learn more about the Greater Reading, PA business community.
