South Korea-based Yongsan Automotive USA will invest more than $5.5 million to open a manufacturing facility in Opelika, AL. The specialty interior parts manufacturer’s first U.S. facility will be located in the city’s Fox Run Business Park, and employ 150 workers after three years.
Yongsan’s investment will pay for manufacturing equipment and building improvements at the site. The company is expected to begin operations at its new Alabama facility in mid-April.
“We welcome Yongsan to Alabama as a great addition to our vibrant auto industry, which continues to grow at a rapid pace in Opelika and other communities across the state,” said Governor Kay Ivey. “We know that Yongsan will find success in Alabama, and we are grateful they selected our state to create new jobs with this investment.”
Yongsan, a supplier to Hyundai Motor Manufacturing of Alabama, produces interior parts such as sun visors, seat parts and luggage trim. It is a leading manufacturer of sophisticated leather covering for interior trims for seats, arm and head rests, crash pads and sun visors.
“I’m excited to welcome Yongsan to the Opelika community,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller. “We want businesses to grow and be successful here, and we are glad to support them. We look forward to building a long-term relationship with Yongsan’s leaders and its employees.”
Yongsan’s arrival in Opelika coincides with a period of strong activity in the state’s auto supply chain, according to Greg Canfield, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. The sector comprises more than 200 companies that employ more than 25,000 workers.
“Alabama is ideally situated at the center of the growing Southeastern automotive cluster,” said Canfield. “As Alabama’s auto industry continues to build toward critical mass, Yongsan and other suppliers coming to the state will find skilled workers and the support they need to be successful.”
Auto suppliers Guyoung Tech and Arkal Automotive recently have announced expansions at their Alabama locations. Together, these expansions will create as many as 125 jobs.
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