Boating parts manufacturer to expand Berks operations

MOHNTON » A boating parts manufacturer is expanding its Mohnton operation and moving its Maryland headquarters to Berks County.

Seakeeper, developer and maker of gyroscopic stabilizers, is investing $11.1 million in the expansion and relocation. The plan calls for renovating its existing Berks campus, acquiring an adjacent building and doubling the company’s Berks County workforce.

All 97 existing jobs at Seakeeper’s Mohnton facility will be retained, with another 97 new, full-time positions on the way.

“We are extremely grateful to have found our home here in Berks County,” said Seakeeper president and CEO Andrew Semprevivio.

“We have incredibly passionate and hardworking employees and we’re in a town and state governed by leaders who recognize innovation and support growing local businesses. This community is our family.”

Seakeeper received funding for the project in the form of grants totaling $757,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Developement.

Gov. Tom Wolf’s office announced the news in a release on Friday.

“Just as boats need gyroscopes, businesses need guidance to stabilize and optimize their operations,” Wolf said.

“Seakeeper’s decision to move its headquarters to Pennsylvania signals that we offer the support needed for businesses to have a competitive advantage and see a future in the commonwealth.”

Semprevivio also thanked the Governor’s Action Team, which coordinated the project,

Seakeeper was founded in a garage in Solomons Island, Md. in 2002. The company has since become a global leader in marine stabilization products and technology, its innovative products eliminating up to 95% of boat roll — the rocking motion that causes seasickness, fatigue and anxiety.

In 2011, Seakeeper acquired the former Joma Machine Company in Mohnton.

“Greater Reading knows the power that comes from supporting the expansion and growth of our existing businesses,” said Greater Reading Chamber Alliance executive vice president and Chief Operating Officer Pamela J. Shupp.

“Companies like Seakeeper are important economic engines for our community and garnering state support for these expansions is critically important.”

LAUREN A. LITTLE — READING EAGLE Seekeeper president and CEO Andrew Semprevivo on the assembly floor Friday at Seakeeper Inc., which is moving its headquarters to Berks County.