International Automotive Components Group North America Inc. has announced plans to invest more than $55.9 million in expansion projects that will create 182 jobs at two Alabama facilities.
IAC has committed $34.3 million in new capital investment to expand its Tuscaloosa County manufacturing facility, where the company currently produces door panels and overhead systems for original equipment manufacturers. This expansion will create 119 jobs at the production site.
In addition, the company will invest $21.6 million at its manufacturing facility in the former Fort McClellan in Anniston, creating 63 jobs. The project builds on an expansion in 2014 that doubled the site, which currently makes automotive interior components and systems. Key components produced include door panels, trim systems and instrument panels for original equipment manufacturers.
“Alabama was the logical choice due to its skilled workforce and proximity to the customer,” said Nick Skwiat, IAC executive vice president and president of IAC North America. “We are excited to see the continued growth of the automotive industry in Alabama and we plan to grow right along with it.”
Local officials in Tuscaloosa and Calhoun County welcomed the company’s expansion plans.
“International Automotive Components is a valued part of Tuscaloosa County’s automotive sector,” said Danielle Winningham, executive director of the Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority. “We are grateful for IAC’s investment in our community and the career opportunities available to our area workforce as a result of their investment.”
Anniston Mayor Jack Draper said, “The City of Anniston is excited that IAC has made the decision to expand here. I have enjoyed working with the leadership at IAC, the Calhoun County Economic Development Council, and the state of Alabama to get this project finalized. This is even further evidence that Anniston is indeed open for business.”
Headquartered in Luxembourg, IAC has more than 22,000 employees in more than 60 locations within 19 countries and serves all major multinational automotive OEMs. Besides Alabama, the company operates manufacturing facilities in seven other U.S. states, including the southern states of Kentucky, Tennessee and Texas.
