New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner James S. Rubin said, “Platter’s Chocolates is well-known in Western New York, and this award can help it expand its market reach, its bottom line and ability to add more local residents to its work force.”
The City of North Tonawanda requested the $100,000 award to enable Platter’s Chocolates purchase candy manufacturing machinery and equipment to add a second production line to keep pace with the growing demand, as it relocates to a section of the historic Wurlitzer Building – where the eponymous organs were manufactured – on Niagara Falls Boulevard.
North Tonawanda Mayor Arthur Pappas said, “Growing up here in North Tonawanda, Platter’s Chocolates has been a part of my childhood for as long as I can remember. I believe I speak for many when I say they have been a North Tonawanda tradition for so many great years. A tremendous thank you goes out to the Homes and Community Renewal organization for their work in re-establishing Platter’s Chocolates where they belong, in their home city.”
Platter’s Chocolates was established in 1938 and the late Roger Urban bought the company in 1972, expanding the company and product line beyond its signature Orange Chocolate and sponge candy to include peanut butter sponge centers, and Chocolate Buffalo Chicken Wings.
In April, the Niagara County IDA approved an exemption on sales tax for building materials and production equipment for the new facility. That is expected to save the company approximately $36,400.
The company currently employs between 35 and 40 people during its peak season. Officials expect that number to increase by 12.
The relocation is expected to be completed by October.
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