CULLMAN – Midway between Huntsville and Birmingham, Cullman continues to add to its reputation as a prime location to grow a business.
Ranked No. 1 in expansion projects and jobs in the state and No. 2 in capital investment from expansions, Cullman County celebrated the expansion of a major automotive supplier when REHAU unveiled a $66 million paint line at its Cullman plant Wednesday.
“The new paint line allows REHAU to fulfill a new production contract with Mercedes to extrude parts for the new electric vehicle line at MBUSA (Mercedes-Benz USA),” said Dale Greer, director of the Cullman Economic Development Agency. “The original paint line was more than 25 years old. This investment should solidify REHAU’s continued operation in Cullman for many years.
“Expanding in Cullman is continued validation of the quality of the workforce here and the support the company receives from the Cullman community, local government and the state of Alabama.”
Switzerland-based REHAU was the first Mercedes supplier in Alabama and the Cullman facility is its first manufacturing plant in North America.
“REHAU originally chose this location because they valued the quality of the workforce and the business-friendly climate in Alabama,” said Greer.
With the expansion and addition of 50 jobs, the plant has more than 800 employees.
“It’s a pleasure to be here today to celebrate another remarkable milestone for REHAU Automotive and the state of Alabama,” said Ivey. “REHAU was the first automotive supplier to follow Mercedes here to Alabama and it was a decision that helped transform our state into an automotive production powerhouse.
“With a rich history that began right here in Cullman, REHAU has become a vital part of our industrial family, employing more than 750 Alabamians. Nothing can beat an Alabama workforce and this new automotive paint line facility is a testament to the strength of Alabama’s pro-business climate. It’s no wonder that Cullman County is ranked No. 1 in expansion projects and jobs as well as No. 2 in capital investment from expansions.”
REHAU supplies Mercedes in Vance; Toyota in Huntsville and Mississippi; Nissan in Mississippi and Tennessee; Kia in Georgia; and BMW in South Carolina.
“I want to thank REHAU for their commitment to this area,” said U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt. “The expansion of their Cullman facility is a testament to how integral their presence is to the Cullman community. While this plant contributes to the success of Cullman, it also plays a significant role in maintaining Alabama’s status as a leader in the automotive industry.”
“It’s truly an honor to be here today for this great expansion,” said Cullman County Commission Chairman Jeff Clemons. “I can’t thank the governor enough for being here; it’s amazing to see you back in Cullman County. We appreciate the jobs created here by REHAU with this expansion and the investment in Cullman in quality jobs that are so important to our communities. I believe much of our success with economic development occurs because the County and the City work together. We’re a partnership and we work together to better serve the citizens across Cullman County.”
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