PHOTOS: Emphasizing the contributions of New Jersey’s diverse manufacturing industry, Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno yesterday promoted New Jersey chocolate manufactures with a visit to Astor Chocolate in Lakewood.
“Astor Chocolate is an important participant in our state’s economy,” said Lt. Governor Guadagno. “Their longstanding commitment to New Jersey clearly demonstrates its confidence in the Christie Administration’s economic development policies that are generating investment and creating employment opportunities for New Jersey residents.”.
The company was established in New York in 1950, and in 1998, the company moved to its current 120,000 square foot modern facility in Lakewood.
“It is a true honor for Astor Chocolate to host Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno,” said David Grunhut president of Astor Chocolate. “This visit solidifies our commitment to the state of New Jersey and we look forward to partnering with the State to create opportunities for its constituents.”
According to a study released by Rutgers University in 2011, 1,660 food and beverage processors, with industry sales totaling $12.2 billion, are located in New Jersey. Strategically located in the center of the Eastern Seaboard, New Jersey is one of the nation’s strongest hubs for manufacturing. Nearly 11,000 manufacturers are located in the state, ranking it among the top 10 of U.S. states.
Since taking office, the Christie Administration has worked to retain and attract 263 companies that have committed to generate and retain over 73,000 jobs and spur a total of $12 billion in public-private investment.
Great job nathan
Is it kosher? Cholov yisroel? Great need for good kosher cholov yisroel chocolates
she’s a great lt governor and we are lucky to have her work for us!
its nice to see she also cares to dress so modestly, an anomaly amongst many public figures.
Keep up the great work.
And kudos to Astor for employing so many in our community! Its a big zechus!
Wishing the Grunhut family tremendous hatzlocho in the many years ahead. May the company go m’chayil el choyil’ Aside from their magnificent lines of chocolates that they produce and ship out across the USA – the owners are the best of the best. A great company to work for. I should know!!! my wife has been there for 15+ years.
I cant beleive theyre still talking manufacturing jobs. Those are all in China, Singapore, Bangledesh etc. read the labels on ur clothing. Manufacturing is a very small sector in the US jobs market.