Governor Robert Bentley announced on Monday that Purico Group and Bolta Werke GmbH will build their first U.S. production facility in Tuscaloosa, bringing hundreds of jobs to the area.
During a press conference, the sister companies said they will invest $39.5 million into the facility and create more than 350 new jobs by 2016.
The new Bolta Werke GmbH structure will produce parts for automotive manufacturers, including Mercedes-Benz U.S. International in Vance and Volkswagen in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
“Alabama has a positive business climate and the best workforce you can find. I appreciate Bolta for making this investment. On the state and local levels, we are committed to helping Bolta succeed.” Governor Bentley stated. “Our labor climate, our workforce development programs and our overall business environment helped us achieve this ranking. I’m proud that Bolta is joining us, and I’m proud that even more great products will be ‘Made in Alabama.’”
Bolta will bring more than 350 jobs to the #Tuscaloosa area by 2016. This is Bolta’s first US facility. pic.twitter.com/jwq1rWqjph
Bolta will bring more than 350 jobs to the #Tuscaloosa area by 2016. This is Bolta's first US facility. pic.twitter.com/jwq1rWqjph
— Gov. Robert Bentley (@GovernorBentley) September 23, 2013
Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield concurred with the governor’s assessment of Alabama’s tenacious workforce.
“The quality of our workforce is a great match with the quality of the products manufactured by Bolta,” Canfield said. “We welcome Bolta as the newest member of the Alabama automotive family, and we look forward to a long and successful relationship between the State of Alabama and Bolta Werke GmbH.”
Bolta Werke GmbH CEO Christian Falk said their decision to build a new plant in Alabama is a major part of their growth strategy.
“With a new production facility in Tuscaloosa, Bolta will not only be able to support Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen in close proximity, but also valued Tier 1 suppliers like Rehua,” Falk said.
Bolta produces specially-molded plastic parts and chrome-plated surfaces for premium automotive manufacturers.
Today’s announcement is the latest success story in a 20-year run of growth in Alabama’s automobile industry — from the announcement of the Mercedes-Benz plant in the early ‘90’s, to Honda, Toyota, and Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama’s (HMMA) announcement in 2002.
Dozens of parts manufacturing facilities have also called Alabama home since these main automotive factories have moved to the state, all bringing hundreds of jobs to the region.
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