Shape Corp., celebrated the grand opening of its second facility in Alabama. Located in Tanner, the new facility is expected to create more than 100 new jobs in the region during the next year.
Held on June 26, the ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at the new 202,306-sq.-ft. location in Southpoint Industrial Park. The event featured remarks from Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, Limestone County Commission Chairman Collin Daly, Alabama Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Angela Till, and Mark White, president and CEO of Shape Corp.
“This new facility represents our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the automotive industry,” said White. “By expanding our operations in Alabama, we are not only increasing our production capabilities, but also investing in the local community through job creation and economic growth. We are excited about the opportunities this new facility brings to both Shape Corp. and the North Alabama area.”
Angela Till, deputy secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, highlighted the significance of Shape Corp.’s expansion.
“Shape’s new investment project in Alabama represents a milestone for a first-class manufacturer that is marking its 50th anniversary this year,” Till said. “Not only will this project allow Shape to expand its operations in North Alabama, but it will also create a significant number of jobs that will provide citizens with a career and valuable opportunities for leadership and skill development.”
Daly expressed his appreciation for Shape Corp.’s commitment to the community.
“For 50 years, Shape Corp. has been at the forefront of innovation in the automotive industry, and their decision to open a second site in Limestone County is a testament to their team’s hard work and dedication,” he said. “This $74 million investment over the next five years is not just a commitment to a new site and equipment, it’s a commitment to the future of our community. With the creation of 80 to 100 jobs between both locations in the next year alone, Shape Corp. provides job and career opportunities to empower our residents with leadership and technical skills. The introduction of specialized technologies like roll forming indicates Shape’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to maintaining its position as a leader in the industry. I and the entire Limestone County Commission extend our congratulations and gratitude to Shape Corp.”
Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle welcomed Shape Corp. to the region’s growing automotive industrial sector: “We are glad to welcome Shape Corp. to our portfolio of suppliers supporting Huntsville’s growing automotive industrial sector. Shape’s strong record as a full-service, tier-one automotive and industrial component supplier will bring more jobs to our metro area and serve as a welcome addition to the region’s expanding economy.”
The facility on Endeavor Way specializes in the production of lightweight aluminum and steel crash management and structural components for automobiles, enhancing vehicle performance and safety. In addition to aluminum and steel welding, the facility will introduce roll forming capabilities.
Shape Corp.’s existing facility in Athens, Alabama, located on Roy Long Road, will continue its operations specializing in plastic injection molding, positioning Shape for continued growth and success in the future.
This year marks Shape Corp.’s 50th anniversary in business. Headquartered in Grand Haven, Michigan, the company employs 4,200 people across 14 manufacturing plants and five tech centers worldwide.