Governor Shapiro Visits New Reading Grocery Store
The 43,000-square-foot store at Fourth and Elm now serves 6,000 residents weekly.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Local Shops
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Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro visited Super Natural & Fresh Produce in Reading to highlight local economic development projects. The 43,000-square-foot store, which now employs over 100 people, was completed with funding from the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
Why it matters
The visit focused on state-level economic support, including tax credits that provide up to $805 in deductions for eligible residents. These programs are part of a broader push to encourage business growth and support household finances across the state.
The store serves 6,000 customers each week and employs 100 people. Residents may currently claim up to $805 off state taxes through the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit.
The players
Josh Shapiro
The Governor of Pennsylvania who oversees state economic development programs and tax credit initiatives.
Commonwealth Financing Authority
An independent state agency that provides funding for economic development projects and community infrastructure improvements.
The details
The grocery store was created by converting an abandoned industrial building at Fourth and Elm streets into a functional retail space. This development was made possible by investment from the Commonwealth Financing Authority, which supports local infrastructure projects to revitalize urban areas.
Timeline
Thursday afternoon
Four years ago
Last year
The Home Front
This development reflects a broader state trend of repurposing abandoned industrial buildings to stimulate local neighborhood economies. It sits within the context of ongoing efforts like the Pennsylvania Mixed-Use Housing Development Pilot Program to modernize urban infrastructure.
Local families should verify their eligibility for the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit to determine if they qualify for the $805 deduction. Check your state tax documentation or consult with a qualified tax professional to see how recent expansions to state credits apply to your household.
The takeaway
State-led economic development initiatives continue to prioritize the transformation of vacant industrial sites into neighborhood hubs. Households should monitor updates regarding the proposed $15 minimum wage and current tax credit programs to stay informed on potential changes to local living costs.
Further reading
Learn more about new commercial projects and retail developments in our Local Shops section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Reading Eagle.
Live Poll
Do you believe state-funded development projects are the best way to support local grocery access?
