American LandMaster, a manufacturer, designer and distributer of off-road utility vehicles, announced plans to expand its operations in Indiana, creating up to 67 new jobs by 2020.
"Here in Indiana, small businesses like American LandMaster provide more than 1.2 million jobs for Hoosier families," said Indiana Secretary of Commerce Jim Schellinger. "This week, we not only celebrate national small business week, but the success of American LandMaster in Indiana. We look forward to witnessing their growth as we continue our efforts to build a pro-growth business climate, support Indiana’s entrepreneurs and invest in our Hoosier workforce."
The company will invest more than $4 million to lease and equip a 112,000-square-foot space at 2499 S. 600 E. near U.S. Highway 30 in Columbia City. The new facility will serve as the company’s headquarters and will accommodate the consolidation of American LandMaster’s manufacturing operations in Roseland, Louisiana, and Fort Wayne. With plans to begin production at the new facility in September, the move will support the company’s efforts to increase efficiency of its operations, enhance customer service and increase its product lineup.
The new facility, which is less than 15 miles from the company’s manufacturing operations in Fort Wayne, will accommodate the company’s entire workforce in Indiana. American LandMaster plans to begin hiring for fabrication, welding, assembly, paint and support positions in June. Interested applicants may apply by emailing jobs@americanlandmaster.com.
“For over 50 years, American LandMaster has been proud to manufacture UTVs and Off-Road vehicles that are truly made in the U.S.,” said Pat Morello, chief executive officer of American LandMaster. “We’re thrilled to continue this American-made tradition by investing in northern Indiana. Not only will the new facility create jobs, it will also position American LandMaster to continue our growth through enhanced quality, faster innovation and customer service.”
Founded in 1959, American LandMaster, an Ambassador Enterprises affiliate, has built and distributed more than one million American-made utility vehicles. The company, which established its first Indiana operations in 2012, offers its customers full size, crew, electric and fun karts to meet the needs for work or play.
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered ASW LLC (dba American LandMaster) up to $420,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $70,000 in training grants based on the company’s job creation plans. These incentives are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The Whitley County Council is also considering additional incentives at the request of the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation.
"We are pleased that American LandMaster has chosen to move its operations here to Whitley County," said Whitley County Commissioner George Schrumpf. "Not only do we welcome the company to our community, we also want to warmly welcome and provide support to any employees who are considering relocating to the Whitley County community."
American LandMaster is one of nearly 500,000 small businesses across Indiana which employ 1.2 million Hoosiers across the state, according to U.S. Small Business Administration. Today’s announcement helps mark National Small Business Week, which celebrates the small business community and its economic impact on Indiana.
About American Landmaster
For more than 50 years, American LandMaster (formerly known as American SportWorks) has been manufacturing and distributing on and off – road UTVs, with over a million vehicles sold to date. At American LandMaster, they design, build and test UTVs and power sport vehicles.
About IEDC
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) leads the state of Indiana’s economic development efforts, helping businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. Governed by a board chaired by Governor Eric J. Holcomb, the IEDC manages many initiatives, including performance-based tax credits, workforce training grants, innovation and entrepreneurship resources, public infrastructure assistance, and talent attraction and retention efforts. For more information about the IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.
About Whitley County EDC
The Whitley County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is the lead economic development agency in Whitley County, Indiana. The EDC works closely with local, regional, and state partners to support our industry clients' growth and success. Our mission is to lead a comprehensive economic development program that retains and expands employment opportunities for local residents and attracts business investment to Whitley County. The Whitley County EDC was established in 1992 and represents Whitley County, Columbia City, and the Towns of Churubusco, Larwill, and South Whitley. For more information about the EDC, visit: www.whitleyedc.com.