Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley will join local officials today in celebrating Topre America’s dedication of its newly expanded automotive parts manufacturing facility.
A ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. at the Cullman-based facility.
A Tokyo-based automotive parts manufacturer, Topre America has been working toward a $109 million investment in Cullman, creating 250 new jobs along the way. The new investment is more than half of the company’s existing building and equipment investment of $200 million up to this point in Cullman.
The 250 new jobs will bring the plant’s total employment to more than 600, and the plant’s footprint has grown from 440,000 square feet to 620,000 square feet. Seven new stamping machines (ranging in size from 200-2,500 tons) will be installed, and a new die storage building will be constructed as part of the project.
“Topre’s expansion is exciting news for Cullman County. Having Gov. Bentley in town is always a good sign for our area. too. He was here recently for the announcement of another development in the area, so we’re encouraged with some of the expansions and new businesses that have been announced,” said Leah Bolin, interim president of the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce.
Topre America opened in 2004, and since then the Cullman plant has expanded numerous times to meet growing demand by customers Nissan, Toyota and Honda.
Topre moved in massive pieces of equipment during June — much of it so large it had to brought in by train, and transferred to a trailer using an industrial-strength crane — during the expansion phase.
Gov. Bentley is expected to speak during the dedication ceremony, which will be attended by state and local elected officials.
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