Martinrea International plans to invest about $35 million to expand its Ridgetown plant to house a new SIMPAC 3000 metric ton stamping press.
Martinrea International plans to invest about $35 million to expand its Ridgetown plant to house a new SIMPAC 3000 metric ton stamping press.
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The project is slated for completion by early next year, the company announced in a media release earlier this month.
The new stamping press will allow for the production of larger and more complex parts for customers, including body in white components, battery enclosures and chassis parts, the company said.
It will also enhance production efficiency and quality, minimizing waste and energy consumption, the company added.
“This initiative is part of Martinrea’s strategy to expand its presence and capabilities in the North American market, addressing the increasing demand for lightweight, high-strength metal solutions in the automotive industry,” the company said.
The move comes about six months after the company closed its Dresden plant, which was impacted by changes in the automotive landscape, including move to electrical vehicles.
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Martinrea moved its remaining programs to the Ridgetown plant, which included plans for an upgrade.
There was no word on whether the new investment would include hiring more workers.
“This location will continue to serve our current customer base and focus on executing a press upgrade strategy to support and enhance our lightweighting initiatives, enabling us to grow our business and broaden our product range for our global customers,” Deanna Lorincz, Martinrea’s global director of communications and marketing, told the Chatham Daily News in January.
“This expansion demonstrates our commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction,” said Pat D’Eramo, chief executive officer of Martinrea International Inc. in the release.
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“It further expands our capabilities as a global supplier in Canada and prepares us for future growth opportunities,” D’Eramo added. “We thank our employees, customers, and the local community, who have been instrumental in our success.”
The Ridgetown plant, which was established in 1987 and acquired by Martinrea in 2006, currently employs approximately 150 people and produces several metal stampings and welded assemblies for the automotive industry. The plant is one of Martinrea’s 56 locations across 10 countries, serving the global automotive industry.
“We are proud to expand operations, build quality products and increase services for our customers with the municipality of Chatham-Kent,” said Martinrea Ridgetown general manager Don Gillier, in the release. “This investment will continue to create opportunities for our employees and their families, ensuring a bright future for all.”
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