Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced an expansion of the 3M plant in Tonawanda, the world's largest sponge-making facility. The company will invest $34.5 million in the 275,000-square-foot facility located at 305 Sawyer Avenue, retain 308 jobs and create 39 new positions. To encourage the company to expand at its Tonawanda location Empire State Development offered $1,000,000 in Excelsior Tax Credits.
"3M's expansion will grow Western New York's manufacturing sector, create new jobs, and generate economic benefits for the region to absorb for decades to come," Governor Cuomo said. "By attracting and retaining growing industries, we build on our momentum to grow the regional economy and support the remarkable resurgence of Western New York."
The project consists of purchasing and utilizing new high-speed wrapping equipment to facilitate the new production positions. These positions will be utilized in the converting of cellulose sponge and laminates to finished products destined for sales both in the United States and in other countries.
3M Tonawanda manufactures the O-Cel-O™ and Scotch-Brite® brand sponges. The facility is a part of 3M's Home Care Division that focuses on manufacturing products to help clean, protect and enhance people’s homes and possessions.
"As a result of Governor Cuomo's strategy to partner with industry to aid private sector growth, 3M's continuing their investment in Western New York and bringing dozens more good paying jobs to our community," Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul said. "Under this administration, Upstate has seen more advanced manufacturing than ever before, guaranteeing 21st century jobs for our workforce into the future."
Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Howard Zemsky said, "The decision by 3M to expand and create dozens of new jobs in Western New York highlights both the value of the region’s skilled workforce and the progress we’ve made on improving the state’s business climate. This project is the latest example of companies staying and growing in Upstate New York, showing once again that Governor Cuomo's focus on creating jobs and strengthening the economy is working for Western New York."
3M is a $30 billion global science and technology powerhouse with more than 90,000 employees around the world. The company enhances the daily lives of people through its innovative products and customer solutions for a range of industries – from Health Care and Industrial, to Electronics and Energy, Safety and Graphics, and Consumer.
Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz said, "The expansion of 3M in Tonawanda represents a significant investment on their part as well as the continued commitment of Governor Cuomo to growing our economic sector. It is great news for Erie County, as over 300 jobs will be retained at the site and nearly 40 new jobs will be added. Our international reputation as a good place for business continues to grow, which benefits all county residents."
Senator Chris Jacobs said, "I want to congratulate 3M on their very meaningful investment, job retention and job creation in the Town of Tonawanda and thank them for their commitment to our community. Manufacturing projects like this have a significant multiplier effect on our local economy, and they further validate the ongoing revitalization of our region’s economic development efforts."
Tonawanda Supervisor Joseph Emminger said, "The expansion of the 3M plant is good news for the economy of Tonawanda. We thank New York State for helping to keep hundreds of manufacturing jobs in our community and adding dozens more to ensure the prosperous future of this state-of-the-art facility."