Area Development
Bowling Green Metalforming LLC, a Canadian-owned automotive parts manufacturer, plans its sixth expansion since 2004, a $14.2 million investment set to create 27 new jobs in Warren County, Kentucky.

BGM is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Magna International, a premier automotive parts manufacturer with more than 350 facilities in 28 countries.

The project includes extensive modifications to BGM’s more than 1 million-square-foot building in the Kentucky Transpark in Bowling Green to install a new 3,000-ton press. The company was the industrial park’s first tenant and now ranks among south central Kentucky’s largest corporate employers, with more than 1,600 employees.

To encourage the investment and job growth in the community, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) in June preliminarily approved the company for tax incentives up to $600,000 through the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based incentive allows a company to keep a portion of its investment over the agreement term through corporate income tax credits and wage assessments by meeting job and investment targets.

In addition, BGM can receive resources from the Kentucky Skills Network. Through the Kentucky Skills Network, companies can receive no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job training incentives.

“Bowling Green Metalforming is pleased to have worked closely with Governor Bevin, the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce on its planned investment project,” said Keith Gameson, BGM general manager. “This project will benefit BGM’s manufacturing process by expanding its capabilities at its existing facility.”

Governor Matt Bevin said, “BGM is a key contributor to Kentucky’s booming automotive industry, and the company has been integral in establishing south central Kentucky as a vibrant manufacturing hub. BGM’s drive to succeed is impressive and we look forward to seeing what the future holds as they further expand their operations. We are grateful for their continued confidence and investment in our state.”

Senator Mike Wilson, of Bowling Green, said, “BGM’s expansion in Bowling Green is a testament to the fact that Kentucky is setting the tone for growth and job creation,” Senator Wilson said. “Magna is a company that could have expanded any of their existing facilities, but they chose Kentucky, and I thank them for their commitment to the commonwealth.”