On Jan. 26, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey announced that KettenWulf, a German-based global manufacturing company, will begin operations in Alabama with a new production facility based in Auburn. The company pledges to invest approximately $34 million into the new production site, bringing a planned 70 jobs to the Auburn-Opelika area.
KettenWulf, a family-owned manufacturing company founded in 1925, is based in Kückelheim, Germany, with facilities across Europe, Asia and North America. Employing over 1,100 worldwide, the company specializes in the manufacturing of conveyor chains, drive chains and sprockets. KettenWulf’s U.S. operations are currently based in Lithia Springs, Georgia.
KettenWulf’s global establishment also encompasses providing engineered solutions for heavy industries, including mining, steelmaking, bulk material handling, manufacturing and other specialties. The Auburn facility will focus on production, as the company plans to strengthen its technology-based manufacturing sector.
According to KettenWulf, its expansion to Auburn represents a significant milestone in growing into the U.S. market. Brian Ludvigsen, general manager of KettenWulf, expressed the company views operations beginning in Auburn as a foundation for future prospects in the U.S. market, and KettenWulf is seeking a long-term partnership with the Auburn-Opelika community.
“Auburn proved to be the right fit for our operational needs, offering a unique environment for our business while strengthening our presence in the United States market,” Ludvigsen said.
In a press release on Jan. 26, Ivey announced the planned manufacturing operation, expressing optimism for KettenWulf’s commitment to the state.
“KettenWulf’s decision to invest in Auburn speaks to Alabama’s ability to compete and win on the global stage,” Ivey said. “This investment underscores Alabama's competitiveness in the global market and demonstrates that our state is an attractive location for innovative industrial and technology companies.”
KettenWulf’s facility will further expand the presence of manufacturing opportunities in the Auburn-Opelika area. The manufacturing sector in Auburn already accounts for nearly 5,000 jobs, with most based in the four industrial and technology parks located in the city.
The Alabama Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Department of the City of Auburn worked closely with KettenWulf to bring the planned operations to Auburn. According to Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, the facility serves to highlight the unique advantages of Auburn in the high tech manufacturing field.
“We are excited to welcome KettenWulf to East Alabama, and we look forward to a long and prosperous relationship," McNair said. “The company’s decision to develop future innovations in Auburn speaks to the talent and experience of the local workforce and the strong community support that is already in place.”
Auburn Mayor Ron Anders Jr. also voiced his support for the upcoming partnership. Anders expressed encouragement by the economic prospects KettenWulf’s presence in Auburn will bring to the city.
“We are grateful to the Wulf family for choosing Auburn and bringing this great company to our city,” Anders said. "KettenWulf further strengthens our technology-based manufacturing sector. We are excited about the economic impact that the investment represents and are grateful for the good jobs offering opportunities for our citizens.”
For more information on KettenWulf and the future Auburn production facility, visit its official website.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
