 The company operates 22 distribution centers , which serve some 22 @,@ 000 clients in 28 states across the eastern United States , with Florida , Illinois , and the Carolinas being its newest market areas after its 2005 expansion . Since 1996 , management has focused on the company 's main distribution center rather than expansion outside of existing footprint . In 2003 , it shifted its focus to moving its operations from the Harrisburg area , which is flood @-@ prone and landlocked , to the Lower Swatara area . It opened a distribution center there in 1998 , and plans to shift its headquarters and production facilities there over the next five to ten years . Unlike other ice cream makers , Hershey Creamery maintains ownership over its delivery trucks , distribution centers and warehouses , a practice the Holder family feels is important to maintaining the traditions of the " private , conservative " company . 
