Snyder’s-Lance, Charlotte, N.C., is building a state-of-the-art research and development center in Hanover, Pa., that will develop and improve new and existing products such as Snyder's of Hanover Pretzels, Lance Sandwich Crackers, and Cape Cod Potato Chips. Detailed product and quality comparisons, sensory evaluations and a full microbiology lab are only a few of the primary services to be provided in the new 60,000-sq.-ft. facility.

The three-story building was designed from the ground up to be environmentally friendly, and will carry a LEED Silver Certification, meeting strict requirements of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system for the construction and operation of high performance green buildings. Additionally, the new center will receive 100% of its electricity from the Company's twenty six acre solar panel farm located nearby.

"Our solar field provides roughly 30% of the electricity used by the Hanover manufacturing facility and will now supply 100% of the electricity for our new Research and Development Center," says Carl E. Lee, Jr., president and chief operating officer. "Snyder's-Lance is a company that is committed to being a great partner to the community and to delivering the highest quality snack foods to consumers and our retail customers."

The company adds that the project should be completed in the fourth quarter of 2012.