Illinois is continuing to carve a niche in advanced manufacturing and clean energy with Wieland North America's groundbreaking ceremony for its $500 million East Alton facility modernization. The investment aims to retain 800 jobs across Illinois, and this was not just a run-of-the-mill event; Governor JB Pritzker himself joined the celebrations on-site. According to official statements, the company is setting its sights on boosting the production of copper and copper alloy components, which are crucial for electric vehicles, their charging infrastructure, and renewable energy production.
True to form, Gov. Pritzker was keen to highlight Wieland's role beyond mere profitability. "More than just a job creator and economic driver - Wieland has been a community anchor - here in East Alton, but also in its other locations in Illinois like Wheeling and Tinley Park", he stated. While Wieland's current initiative adds substantial value to the state's burgeoning clean energy economy, it's not the only development on Illinois' horizon. Last year, the state noted a 20 percent increase in business relocations and expansions, securing a second-place ranking by Site Selection Magazine for the third consecutive year.
The upgrades at East Alton will mirror the efficiency and technological advancements of Wieland's operation in Vöhringen, Germany, which Pritzker had previously visited. Greg Keown, President of Wieland Rolling & Recycling, underscored this by articulating the project's alignment with the company's vision for future growth. "Thank you to Governor JB Pritzker and all governmental officials for their partnership and support during this exciting new chapter for our East Alton facility and Wieland as a whole," Keown said. The facelift of the facility is set to inject newfound vigor into the area's economy and industrial might.
The State of Illinois is backing Wieland's endeavor with a major incentive package capped at about $231 million, a chunk of which, $172 million over 30 years, will come from tax benefits through the REV program. Innovative expansions like this are seen as linchpins in the state's Economic Growth Plan, as articulated by DCEO Director Kristin Richards. "Wieland's modernization of its East Alton facility is a true investment in southwestern Illinois," Richards alluded.
Grassroots recognition of Wieland's contribution towards job creation and economic boost isn't going unnoticed either, with East Alton Mayor Darren Carlton thanking the State for its investment. Meanwhile, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski acknowledged the scope of the investment: "This investment will have a lasting impact on the people of East Alton, and I am proud to have played a role in ensuring Wieland's continued presence."
