Posted by Heidi Schwartz
VOXX International Corporation has announced it will expand its automotive components production facility with a new, state-of-the-art manufacturing center and corporate headquarters in Orlando, FL. As a part of this initiative, VOXX International has also begun the process of moving its New York-based executive headquarters to Orlando, which will eventually be housed in the new building. The expansion will create 134 jobs in addition to retaining 173 jobs, and the project will invest $16.5 million in the community.
FL Gov. Rick Scott said, “The expansion of VOXX International and creation of 134 new jobs is great news for Orlando families. We are working to create a global economy where businesses can grow and create more jobs. We have also worked hard to create an environment where our manufacturing businesses can flourish by rolling back the sales tax on manufacturing equipment and machinery for manufacturing companies like VOXX.”
VOXX International considered other locations but chose Orlando for its home grown talent pool, proximity to major transportation hubs, and business friendly climate. The company will produce automotive entertainment systems and products in the new 115,000 square-foot facility.
Pat Lavelle, president and CEO of VOXX International stated, “This is a very exciting development for our company and one we believe is important to the growth of our Automotive OE segment, especially now that we have combined all of our OE business into one entity—VOXX Hirschmann. With all of our domestic OE production under one roof, Florida will provide an excellent location and a pro-business climate for us to consolidate production and manufacturing operations from other locations. Today, the Automotive segment of our business represents nearly 50 percent of our sales and we believe this can and will grow over the next several years, especially as we bring to market more integrated solutions that combine our rear-seat entertainment systems with our antenna and tuner technologies.”
Florida manufacturers are a powerful economic engine for the state’s economy. In addition to removing the manufacturing and equipment sales tax on manufacturers earlier this year, Florida’s strong workforce and infrastructure make it an attractive state for manufacturers.
Secretary of Commerce and EFI president & CEO Gray Swoope said, “VOXX International’s expansion will add great value to Florida’s IT and manufacturing sectors. We’re excited to see the international growth of VOXX, and I look forward to their continued success from this new Florida facility.”
Department of Economic Opportunity Executive Director Jesse Panuccio said, “The expansion of VOXX International in Orlando is a win for the local economy and the state. With the retention of 173 jobs and the creation of 134 new jobs, this company will continue to be a vital asset to the local high-tech industry.”
“Orlando’s emerging technology and advanced manufacturing industries make it the ideal location for VOXX International’s new production facility. We’re pleased with VOXX’s decision to expand its presence in Orange County to develop its next digital products and offer new opportunities for skilled talent across our region,” said Rick Weddle, president and CEO of the Orlando Economic Development Commission.
