Nassau IDA assists Nassau Candy expansion, Retains 300 jobs in Hicksville

According to Nassau County executive Edward Mangano, Nassau Industrial Development Agency (NCIDA) approved an economic development compact that will allow a major manufacturer and distributor of chocolates and gourmet foods to expand its operations in Hicksville and retain over 300 jobs. "My economic development team has worked tirelessly to help create and retain more than 19,000 private sector jobs," said Mangano. "This latest job compact is a sweet deal for Nassau County. We are retaining more than 300 jobs and a company that has operated in the county for 80 years from moving elsewhere." The economic development compact will keep Nassau Candy Distributors, which had considered relocating to New Jersey, in Hicksville, allowing them to buy and renovate an existing 127,000 s/f building at 300 Duffy Ave. The company agreed to retain 310 jobs and establish a regional distribution facility. The project, which will cost the company $14.7 million, produce five full-time equivalent construction jobs and generate $430 million in economic benefit for Nassau County's economy. Nassau Candy, based on West John St., sells more than 10,000 items. It makes chocolate-covered raisins and pretzels, fudge, fruit slices, roasted nuts and hand-dipped chocolate cherries, among others. Nassau Candy was founded more than 80 years ago on Front St. in Hempstead Village. Barry Rosenbaum and his brother-in-law, Lesley H. Stier, purchased the candy and tobacco distributor in 1984 and expanded manufacturing operations and stopped selling tobacco. About the Nassau County IDA The Nassau County Industrial Development Agency consists of a team of professionals whose mission is to promote the economic welfare and prosperity of Nassau County. It is a resource for businesses in Nassau County and those considering relocation. The IDA provides assistance to businesses interested in relocating, expanding and financing new investments. It has provided assistance to a wide range of companies, from Hain Celestial, Arizona Iced Tea and Sleepy's Mattress to Cold Spring Harbor Labs and Grumman Studios. For more information, please visit www.nassauida.orgor call 516-571-1945.