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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Germany-Based Wieland Group Expands East Alton, Illinois, Operations

01/19/2024
Germany-based Wieland Group, a global supplier of high-quality copper and copper alloy solutions, plans to upgrade its manufacturing operations in East Alton, Illinois. The $500 project is expected to retain 800 jobs.

The company will re-equip, expand, and modernize its existing facility, enabling it to increase production of critical copper and copper alloy components that are used in electric vehicles (EVs), EV charging infrastructure and renewable energy production.

"Copper is not only integral to the energy transition, it is the foundation of a sustainable future," said Wieland CEO Dr. Erwin Mayr. "This investment positions Wieland as the undisputed leader in North American rolled products and underscores our commitment to the revitalization of American manufacturing. This investment represents our dedication to respond to our customers' evolving needs, bringing long-term sustainable solutions to the North American market. The project will allow Wieland to significantly expand future capacity and deepen our collaboration with our customers in building towards a more sustainable future."

Wieland's total incentive package from the State of Illinois, which includes REV and other incentives, is valued at approximately $231 million. Through REV, Wieland is eligible to receive tax benefits totaling $172 million over 30 years. The remaining benefits include capital funding for infrastructure projects in East Alton, which includes the construction of a new electricity substation, flexible funds for workforce support, and additional tax incentives.

"Wieland's facility modernization project is an extraordinary example of what happens when we prioritize investing in our state's world-class workforce and preserving a century-old relationship with a business that has deep Illinois roots," noted Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Director Kristin Richards. "This investment will help bolster the State of Illinois' clean energy economy and is an investment in the future of manufacturing jobs in East Alton."

Wieland is one of the world's leading suppliers of semi-finished copper and copper alloy products. The company develops solutions for automotive, aerospace, electronics, refrigeration, air conditioning, and other industries. Wieland has a global network of more than 80 production sites, service, and trading companies.

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