US confectioner Hershey has opened its revamped Pennsylvania facility following investment that led to the end of production at the company's original chocolate plant.

The expanded West Hershey facility has taken on production from its 19 East Chocolate Avenue site, which opened in 1905.

The company said the new plant features "state-of-the-art technology never before used in the manufacture of confectionery", the firm said today (18 September).

It claimed the facility is "the world's most technologically advanced chocolate making facility", housing "advanced information technology systems" that "include automated, real-time diagnostics systems to help keep operations running smoothly 24 hours a day".

"Today, we are celebrating our proud Pennsylvania heritage, the growing popularity of Hershey products in global markets, our continuing investments in productive technology and our great workers who make it possible to enjoy these iconic products," said Hershey president and CEO John Bilbrey said.

The 340,000 sq. ft. expansion at West Hershey is located around two miles from the original facility.