Norwich, NY — Unison Industries plans to invest nearly $30 million to upgrade and improve its product manufacturing and research and development operations in Norwich, Chenango County, NY. The project will result in the creation of 76 new jobs over five years, as well as the retention of 362 existing jobs in the Southern Tier.
“Unison’s Norwich expansion is great news for the community and further proof of the strength of New York’s aviation and aerospace industries,” Governor of NY, Andrew M. Cuomo said. “This investment is yet another example of our commitment to foster the creation of new jobs in the Southern Tier, as we continue to attract and retain top-notch companies and ensure this region soars for generations to come.”
“This announcement is further proof that our approach to rebuilding Upstate’s economy is working,” said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, who spoke at today’s event. “Through the Southern Tier Soaring plan, we have laid the groundwork that allows a major manufacturer like Unison to expand operations, create new jobs and deepen its commitment to this region.”
To encourage Unison to invest $28.9 million in its Southern Tier facility, New York offered a Southern Tier Soaring Upstate Revitalization Initiative grant of up to $4.23 million, which is performance-based and tied to project commitments. The company will invest over $10 million in facility and equipment upgrades and $18 million in research and development operations. The expansion project is expected to be completed in December of 2021.
Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Howard Zemsky said, “Unison’s expansion is indicative of the Southern Tier’s strengths in manufacturing and research and development, which are major economic drivers for the region. The company’s commitment also builds on the Southern Tier Soaring initiative that’s fueling economic growth and the creation of good jobs in communities from Corning to Norwich.”
Dan Ketchum, General Manager of the Unison Industries-Norwich Site said, “We are excited about the growth in the Unison Industries facility here in Norwich with the support from New York and Empire State Development. This site has been part of this community for a long time, and this investment will help us continue to drive growth in our manufacturing and research operations into the future.”
Southern Tier REDC Co-Chairs Tom Tranter, President & CEO of Corning Enterprises and Harvey Stenger, President of Binghamton University said, “We want to thank Governor Cuomo for his efforts to support Upstate, and to also acknowledge Southern Tier Soaring’s successful blueprint for economic growth – together they are contributing to a future of continued opportunity for the region and for companies like Unison.”
Senator Fred Akshar said, “Unison is a vital part of our Upstate community and a big employer in Norwich. I’m happy to see the state investing in our existing business and giving them what they need to grow.”
Assemblyman Clifford Crouch said, “This project is critical to continuing this region’s growth and momentum, and with over 360 jobs retained and 70 jobs that will be created because of this multi-million dollar investment, it is clear the Governor understands what it takes to attract top-notch businesses. This project is exemplary of everything this community is working to accomplish and we look forward to new careers for our residents in the near future.”
Chenango County Board of Supervisors Chairman Lawrence N. Wilcox said, “Unisons expansion in Norwich is a win-win for both communities throughout the county and the entire Southern Tier. This is a significant investment that will help boost New York’s advanced technology and aerospace industries, and I thank Governor Cuomo for supporting this major business development.”
Additional news available at www.governor.ny.gov