On Jan. 8, Continental announced it will expand its rubber mixing operations at the ContiTech industrial hose facility in Norfolk, Neb. The move will accommodate its North American manufacturing facilities by providing rubber for industrial hoses and whitewall tires for passenger cars. The $9.3 million expansion will add space as well as more employees to the existing workforce of over 360 individuals.
“We plan have plans to add in excess of 19,000 square feet to expand our rubber mixing capabilities and better serve our internal and external customers,” said Dan Granatowicz, plant manager in Norfolk to the Norfolk Daily News. “We anticipate that the expansion will enable us to add in excess of 30 associates. The investment will also reaffirm our commitment as a good corporate citizen to the Norfolk community and the region as we secure jobs and support the economies of each.”
Construction began immediately and will be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2019.
Norfolk Mayor Josh Moenning celebrated the news.
“As a globally competitive, international business, ContiTech’s decision to make such a significant investment here signifies a high level of commitment to and trust in the people of northeast Nebraska,” Moenning said.
The Nebraska Department of Economic Development assisted the city’s efforts with the project through a community development block grant and by providing some site and building development funds.
Dave Rippe, director of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, said, “Continental’s decision shows confidence in Norfolk’s excellent workforce and helps grow Nebraska.”
The Norfolk facility primarily manufactures industrial hose and supplies compound for a variety of applications, such as general purpose air and water, garden, mining, petroleum, steam and welding hose. The new mixing operations also will allow the plant to supply compound for product specific whitewall Continental passenger tires.
ContiTech is served electrically by Nebraska Public Power District.
Parts of article courtesy Norfolk Daily News