Japan-based U.S. Tsubaki Automotive plans a $1.9 million investment to expand its Portland, Tennessee, manufacturing facility, creating 70 new, full-time jobs in Sumner County.

Tsubaki Automotive supplies complete chain drive systems for many engine and transmission applications, including cam drives, balancer drives and oil pump drives. The systems typically include chains, tensioners, guides and sprockets.

“The expansion to Tennessee is very exciting for the Tsubaki team. Tsubaki prides itself in innovation, employee dedication and being committed to the community. These fundamental values are the foundation that has led to our success. We look forward to growing our partnership with the community and creating lasting opportunities,” Tim Goble, Tsubaki Portland plant manager said. Tsubaki’s customers include the major automotive OEMs in North America: General Motors, Ford, Toyota, Nissan and Honda. The company provides complete services including initial design support utilizing CAD, component and engine testing and analysis.

“With more than 900 auto manufacturers and suppliers in the state, Tennessee continues to prove itself a prime location for the auto industry and companies like Tsubaki Automotive,” said Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty. “We are grateful Tsubaki calls Tennessee home and has chosen to further invest in our state and its citizens.”

“Tsubaki is a long-standing member of our industrial community, and we are very pleased that they have decided to expand right here in Portland,” Mayor Ken Wilbur, mayor said. “It’s a good sign for our business climate when businesses choose to expand their existing Tennessee locations. We are also appreciative of our partnership with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and their work on this project. As a team, we are all very excited for Tsubaki and wish them continued success.”

“I am pleased to congratulate Tsubaki on their expansion and new job creation in Portland. We are proud of Tsubaki's existing and new investment in our community,” Denise Geminden, Economic and Community Development Director for the City of Portland, said. “Tsubaki demonstrates their dedication to Portland through participation in community events. We appreciate the Tsubaki team and champion their continued growth in Portland.”