Lippert, Kinro Expansions Add 330 Jobs in Elkhart County

Drew Industries says Goshen and Middlebury have been chosen as the sites for an expansion of Indiana operations by its two subsidiaries.

Lippert Components Manufacturing, Inc. and Kinro Manufacturing, Inc., subsidiaries of Drew Industries Inc.,have  announced that Goshen and Middlebury in Indiana have been chosen as the sites for an expansion of operations by both companies. The expansions will create up to 330 new jobs by 2012.

The decision by the companies to locate these expansions in Elkhart County came after consideration of locations in other states. The positions are a result of continuing company growth through previously announced strategic acquisitions. A portion of the operations being expanded are a result of the relocation of operations from another state.

“Today’s announcement by Lippert Components and Kinro Manufacturing further solidifies Indiana’s position as the top manufacturing state in the country,” said Gov. Mitch Daniels. “Elkhart County’s history of success in the RV industry will give these companies a leg-up on their out-of-state competition.”

Lippert Components, a manufacturer of recreational vehicle and manufactured housing components, plans to invest approximately $650,000 in new machinery and equipment as part of the expansion. Kinro, a manufacturer of windows and doors for the recreational vehicle, manufactured housing and other industries, plans to invest approximately $3.5 million for the lease of a facility, and the purchase of machinery and equipment for the expanded production line.

“We are extremely pleased to continue to expand the operations of both Lippert Components and Kinro in Indiana. The state of Indiana, Elkhart County and the cities of Goshen and Middlebury have shown a strong commitment to partnering with companies like ours in the recreational vehicle industry so that our industry can not only rebound from the economic downturn but also thrive in the future. We appreciate the support we have received from state, county and local officials. These expanded operations will increase our market share and expand our customer base.” said Jason Lippert, chairman and chief executive officer of Lippert Components and Kinro.

With approximately 4,000 employees nationally, Lippert Components and Kinro currently employ more than 2,800 full-time workers at locations throughout northern Indiana. The company plans to begin filling the new manufacturing and administrative positions this fall. Lippert Components and Kinro currently operate 31 facilities in 12 states.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Lippert Components Manufacturing, Inc. up to $1.55 million in performance-based tax credits and up to $165,000 in training grants based on the company’s job creation plans. Elkhart County and the city of Goshen will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the Economic Development Corporation of Elkhart County.

“We are proud that Lippert Components and Kinro have decided to continue their commitment to Goshen and Elkhart County with these new investments in capital and jobs,” said Goshen Mayor Allan Kauffman. “As a Goshen-based company, Lippert Components has become one of our largest and most valued employers. This announcement is further evidence that our local economy is experiencing strong growth, thanks largely to the rebound in durable goods manufacturing.”

RV production in the Hoosier state continues to increase during the national economic recession. According to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association, the RV industry produced 242,000 units nationally in 2010, a 46 percent increase from the year before. More than 83 percent of all American-made RVs built during this time period were produced in Indiana.

Daily News, Economic Development

Sponsored Content
Featured Location

Location Spotlight: Topeka, Kansas

With three top universities in the area and connectivity via major interstates, Topeka, Kansas is rich with opportunity. Visit the GO Topeka Economic Partnership to learn more.

Featured Video

Webinars, Podcasts & Videos

Camp Hall – A Next Generation Commerce Park in South Carolina

Camp Hall is a first-of-its-kind, master-planned industrial work space located in Charleston, S.C. As a convergence of people, place and programming, Camp Hall delivers thoughtful infrastructure and logistical features that empower people — and business — to thrive.

Hear from leaders at the Destination Medical Center and Mayo Clinic Business Development in Rochester about why they feel Minnesota is filled with opportunities for founders and why investors should consider the power of startups in Minnesota.

Business Benefits In Minnesota, a Mayo Clinic Business Development and Destination Medical Center Perspective

Hear from leaders at the Destination Medical Center and Mayo Clinic Business Development in Rochester about why they feel Minnesota is filled with opportunities for founders and why investors should consider the power of startups in Minnesota.

Agricultural Heritage Meets Strong Manufacturing Base With a rich history in agriculture, the region is now made up of a strong manufacturing base, including everything from snack foods and Gatorade, to leading human resources software and revolutionary plug-less power systems for electric vehicles. Mount Rogers Regional Partnership's strategic East Coast location is the driving force.

Virginia’s i81-i77 Crossroads | Talent Retention & Manufacturing

Learn about manufacturing jobs and facilities in the Mount Rogers region of southwest Virginia. There is ample opportunity for education and jobs in a region rich with culture and heritage.

Share to...