Letter: Campbell’s Camden Expansion is further evidence of city’s renaissance

For as long as I remember, Campbell Soup Company has been a source of pride and anxiety for Camden City. It has created opportunities for upward mobility and good-paying jobs, but there’s always been discussion — more in the past and less so recently — about Campbell’s future in Camden.

As manufacturers, packers, and producers shifted operations out of the region, Campbell’s remained — offering hope to native Camdenites, like me, who saw the potential for the household name brand to help our city’s revitalization and renaissance following decades of neglect and decline.

Last month, that hope was rewarded by Campbell’s announcement of a $50 million plan to consolidate operations in its Snacks division to Camden over the next three years. The project is anticipated to bring over 300 jobs to the city and is a nod to the hard work of local and county leaders who have worked hard to improve Camden’s credit rating and business climate and made significant investments in the local workforce.

I, for one, am proud to see our hometown brand continue to invest in the city that has contributed so much to its success. It may be time to put the idle talk of imminent relocation to rest. Campbell’s Soup Company has called Camden home since 1869, and this latest project is further evidence that the company is here to stay.Rep. Donald Norcross, a resident of Camden, represents New Jersey's 1st Congressional District.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Campbell Soup's Camden NJ Expansion is evidence of city’s return