A 95-year-old wholesale distributor of automation, datacomm, electrical, energy, lighting, and switchgear products and services, Werner Electric plans to expand its headquarters, regional distribution center and office facility in Cottage Grove, Minnesota.

“Werner has been experiencing double-digit growth, year over year, for a long time now. This investment in people and facilities represents our commitment to growing with our customers and our investment in Minnesota,” President Ben Granley stated.

The company has been working closely with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and has been approved for a Job Creation Fund award of $325,000 to assist the expansion. The Job Creation Fund is a pay-for-performance program that provides expansion support funding to businesses after they meet certain criteria, including minimum requirements for job creation and private investments. This expansion will also bring a significant investment in additional staff and inventory over the next three years.

“Werner Electric is a growing company with a reputation for serving its customers and employees,” said DEED Deputy Commissioner Kevin McKinnon. “With roots reaching back to the 1920s in the Twin Cities, Werner is deeply invested in its workforce and the community. We thank them for making a commitment to expand here.”

“The planned expansion by Werner Electric is a great example of the strength of our region and how new investment leads to job growth,” said Michael Langley, CEO of GREATER Minneapolis Saint Paul Regional Economic Development Partnership. “Werner Electric’s decision to grow here is a boost for the company and our economy.”

In working with the city of Cottage Grove, DEED and GREATER MSP, Werner Electric put together a strategic development plan to support local and state initiatives to help drive further economic success.