A Germany-based global producer of specialty paper, Felix Schoeller negotiated a contract with a major manufacturing company, resulting in relocation of a paper conversion operation from out-of-state to its existing facility in Pulaski, New York. The expansion project doubles the Pulaski facility output, and has retained and created 290 full-time and contract positions.

Felix Schoeller transitioned from a papermill to a converting company approximately seven years ago, and at that time, the company had ceased all major operations in Pulaski. The firm only focused on converting papers that are made at other Felix Schoeller locations outside of the U.S. The company has since been successful in growing its business significantly, but market dynamics in the North American photo paper market have made it difficult to continue the path of expansion, according to Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Office.

“The new contract provides significant growth to the company’s business and employment in Pulaski, and secures the existing jobs. In addition, the ability to accommodate future, new contract business will solidify Schoeller’s existence in Central New York,” said a Governor’s spokesman.

Michael Szidat, President/CEO of Felix Schoeller North America said, “The combination of a skilled and dedicated workforce, a good infrastructure and the right economic development assistance have helped us in winning this new business. This expansion does not only solidify our presence in Pulaski, New York, but sets a good basis for future growth.”

Governor Andrew Cuomo said, “This commitment by Felix Schoeller not only creates jobs – it speaks volumes about the business community’s confidence in central New York and our ability to be globally competitive.”

As an incentive, Empire State Development is providing Felix Schoeller with more than $650,000 in Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits to assist the company with the purchase of machinery and equipment and other project-related costs required to accommodate the new paper converting contract, and to help offset out-of-state incentives. The Governor’s Office said “as of today’s announcement, the company has actually exceeded the State’s required number of jobs created in order to receive the Excelsior tax credits.”

Empire State Development President/CEO/Commissioner Kenneth Adams said, “Felix Schoeller’s expansion project is a true win for the Pulaski community and for the Central New York region. The Governor has made supporting our Upstate manufacturing companies like Felix Schoeller a priority in turning around the economy and creating jobs. We are pleased that, with assistance from the State, this global manufacturer has been able to secure new business and expand its operations, leading to the company’s retention of its existing jobs as well as the creation of new jobs which have exceeded its initial growth expectations.”