Follett Corporation, a Lehigh Valley company that manufactures ice storage bins, refrigerators and freezers, recently received Pennsylvania Machinery and Equipment Loan Fund (MELF) financing to expand operations and create jobs.

Follett Corporation will not only retain its 300 employees, but is also expected to add 50 new jobs within the next three years.

“Follett Corporation’s formula for success has always included innovation when designing and manufacturing ice storage bins and freezers for the foodservice and healthcare industries,” said Don Cunningham, president and CEO of the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corp. “The expansion of Follett’s Easton facility not only better positions the company for future growth, but also benefits the entire Lehigh Valley because it keeps 300 jobs here – and creates another 50 in the process.”

The $7.9 million project includes a 25,000-square-foot expansion and renovation of the existing 131,400-square-foot facility located at 801 Church Lane, Easton. The money will be spent on renovations, new equipment and employee training.

Follett worked closely with LVEDC to obtain $2.2 million in MELF funds.

“My administration’s continued commitment to improve our business climate and support of business growth is encouraging companies like Follett Corporation to expand and create jobs in Pennsylvania,” said Governor Tom Corbett. “This company is one of many businesses in the Lehigh Valley and throughout Pennsylvania that is growing, creating jobs and contributing to the community.”

Earlier this year, the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) approved a $1.9 million, 15-year loan to the Northampton County New Jobs Corporation on behalf of Follett.

Since 1948, Follett Corporation has been an industry leader in designing and manufacturing ice storage and transportation systems, ice and beverage dispensers, and medical-grade refrigerators and freezers for the foodservice and healthcare industries. The company is expanding to increase its capacity and improve its competitiveness and product quality. In addition to its existing product portfolio, the company expects to grow with new products, such as large medical refrigerators and extensions or its recently launched ice and water dispensers.

MELF provides low-interest loans to manufacturing and industrial companies for the acquisition and installation of new or used machinery and equipment or for upgrading existing machinery and equipment.

The project was coordinated by the Governor’s Action Team in collaboration with LVEDC.