Supreme Industries, Inc. a full-line manufacturer of customized truck bodies, has announced plans to expand its operations in Goshen, IN, creating up to 350 new jobs by 2015.
With manufacturing locations in five states, Supreme’s corporate headquarters and largest manufacturing site is located in Goshen. The light truck, bus and specialty vehicle manufacturer plans to invest $7.71 million to refurbish and equip multiple facilities used in the truck and bus production located on its 100 acre-campus in Elkhart County.
“Companies around the world are choosing Indiana as the right place to expand their businesses,” said Gov. Mitch Daniels. “We know Supreme could have chosen another state for this expansion project, but this decision was based on confidence in Indiana’s business climate and Goshen’s quality work force.”
Supreme, which currently employs 630 associates in Goshen and more than 1,600 nationwide, will begin hiring new manufacturing associates later this year.
“Supreme has chosen Indiana as its expansion site due to the labor force, its strong heritage in specialty vehicles and the continued support from the state,” said Kim Korth, chief executive officer of Supreme.
Founded in 1979, Supreme is known for building and distributing specialized commercial truck bodies and buses, including armored trucks, dry-freight and insulated cargo vans, service vans, shuttle buses and trolleys. Today, the company, which supplies more than 1,000 customers worldwide, has operations nationwide, including seven manufacturing facilities and one service and distribution center. In 2011, the company reported revenues of $301 million.
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Supreme Industries, Inc. up to $1,500,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $67,500 in training grants based on the company’s job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Goshen will consider additional property tax abatement.
“Although Supreme is based in Goshen, they are a manufacturer with national recognition and stature,” said Goshen Mayor Alan Kauffman. “We are proud they have decided to invest in the Goshen campus, bringing quality jobs to our community.”
