Agriculture and Food Production
With names like Godiva, Sweet Street Desserts, SunRich, Giorgio Foods, R.M. Palmer, and Bachman Snack Foods, it's easy to understand why the food industry is thriving in Greater Reading. Within a 50-mile radius of Reading, almost 500 food processing companies employ over 39,000 people with combined sales exceeding $19 billion. These companies range from bakeries to meat processors to dairies. 
Agriculture is also synonymous with big business in Greater Reading. Pennsylvania ranks 4th in agribusiness in the country, and Greater Reading ranks 3rd in the state and 67th in the nation for agricultural production. Ideal climate, fertile soil, an abundant water supply, proximity to major markets, and a strong farming tradition, make this industry a strength for the region.
The county is also ranked #3 in the United States for its efforts to preserve agricultural land. Greater Reading is the second largest grower in the state for alfalfa hay, nursery/greenhouse crops, and mushrooms, and the third largest supplier of wheat, corn for grain, soybeans, and egg-laying poultry.
Why Greater Reading?
"The Reading and Berks County region has been a terrific location for our company over the years. We enjoy easy access to all the major northeast markets, and our key suppliers. Our employees benefit from a vibrant community that offers an abundant array of educational, recreational, and cultural amenities, as well as a cost of living that is significantly favorable to other regional markets."
--Scott Carpenter, President, The Bachman Company
"People in Berks County have always been known for a great work ethic. We have been very fortunate here at our Company to have many dedicated long term employees that contributes to our continued success and growth."
--Mark E. Schlott Executive Vice President of Operations/COO, R.M. Palmer
"Greater Reading is located for success in the Food Industry because of location to customers and large population centers. Our workforce is a key component of our success. We stand above most for efficiency and quality due to our employees. Agriculture is # 1 in PA and the state agricultural support is fantastic including Penn State and many state and local organizations."
--John Rothenberger, CFO, Clover Farms Dairy