The new 340,000 facility marks Pennsylvania’s largest manufacturing investment since Hershey built its former West Hershey plant in 1991.

The Hershey Co. has opened a $300 million, state-of-the-art plant in West Hershey, Pa. to produce Hershey’s Bars and other chocolate products, including up to 70 million Hershey’s Kisses a day, the Philadelphia Business Journal reported.

The 340,000-square-foot site will operate around the clock, and is expected to provide a $1 billion economic impact in Pennsylvania over five years through supplier contracts, payroll and related spending.

Not only is the plant one of the Hershey Co.’s largest capital investments, but it’s Pennsylvania’s largest manufacturing investment since Hershey built its former West Hershey plant in 1991.

“The West Hershey facility is a testament to the commitment and dedication of our tremendous plant employees,” Terry O’Day, senior vice president of global operations told the Philadelphia Business Journal. “I am proud of how our people have adapted quickly and recognized the opportunities provided by the latest technology. They contribute directly to improved quality, speed and efficiency. They truly represent the manufacturing employees of the future, operating one of the most technologically advanced candy factories in the world.”

Other recent investments in Hershey, Pa., include $50 million to $75 million in upgrades to distribution-and-administrative facilities.