GE Aviation plans $50 million expansion in Auburn, will hire 60
GE Aviation is planning to pump $50 million into its Auburn facility, expanding its additive manufacturing operation. The expansion will create 60 jobs and install new additive production machines at the plant as it works to mass produce a jet engine component. GE Aviation in Auburn currently employs around 230 people. – AL.com
Remington gets $3M blowback for failing to hit hiring levels
Alabama officials say a gun maker is losing $3 million of a promised $38 million in incentives from the state. State Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield said that Remington Arms has failed to meet hiring and payroll targets at its Huntsville plant. Remington emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization last year. In November, the Huntsville City Council agreed to relieve the company of its obligation to gradually increase its workforce, and allowed it to maintain at least 415 employees with the goal of having 1,868 workers in 2023. – WVTM
In controversial turn, Air Force to take bids on rocket launches
Within the next 10 days, the U.S. Air Force may issue an opportunity for rocket companies to bid on contracts for about 25 launches between 2022 and 2026. Although a “request for proposals” may not sound all that provocative, this particular government solicitation is filled with intrigue—and will have major implications for all of the big U.S. rocket companies. – Ars Technica
Gulf Packaging project to add 16 jobs in Baldwin County
Gulf Packaging, Inc., a corrugated box manufacturer based in North Baldwin County, announced plans this week to construct a new manufacturing facility to support the company’s future growth and expansion near Bay Minette. The new 85,000-square-foot facility will house the company’s material handling and manufacturing processes, and is expected to create 16 new jobs and more than $8 million in capital investment to Baldwin County over the next three years. – Fox10 TV
Lifeway to close all stores in 2019, president says
Lifeway Christian Resources announced Wednesday it will close all 170 of its stores this year. In a post on the retailer’s website, Lifeway called the decision a “strategic shift of resources to a dynamic digital strategy.” It will continue to sell items through its website and a customer service 1-800 number. – AL.com
Ford gets $850M serious about electric production
Ford announced new investments Wednesday in its U.S. facilities for future production of next-generation electric vehicles as well as its first autonomous vehicles. The Ford Mustang-inspired electric SUV is going to be the automaker’s first real EV next year, but it will be manufactured in Mexico. Now the automaker also wants to bring some EV production to the U.S. with an $850 million investment through 2023 at its Flat Rock (Mich.) Assembly Plant. – Electrek
