Boeing announced a contract with GKN Aerospace for final assembly and painting of 737 MAX Advanced Technology Winglets. UK-based GKN selected Sumner, Washington, as the location for a facility where it will assemble and paint the Winglets.

GKN selected a 57,000 sq. ft. location in Sumner where a previous tenant had also had a paint plant. The new Winglet production location will open in 2015 and employ approximately 75 people at full production, with more possible in the future as the 737 MAX ramps up.

“This is a great win for Sumner, Pierce County and Washington State,” said Bruce Kendall, President/CEO of the Economic Development Board for Tacoma-Pierce County. “GKN was attracted by the region’s skilled workforce, our unmatched training and education systems for the industry and the excellent proximity to Boeing’s Renton plant, where the 737 MAX will be assembled.”

“GKN is a large company, with many business lines from aerospace to automotive,” said Kendall. “Once they get to know Pierce County, we hope they keep us in mind for their future expansion needs. With world class businesses, unmatched natural beauty, affordable housing, great education and moderate climate, this region can’t be beat as a great place to do business.”