Gardner Denver, Inc. (GDI), a manufacturer of industrial compressors, blowers, pumps, loading arms and fuel systems, is moving its global headquarters to Milwaukee. The company’s offices will be housed at 222 E. Erie St. in Milwaukee’s Third Ward. The headquarters could ultimately employ as many as 200 senior executives, managers and professionals.
Founded in 1859, Gardner Denver is one of the oldest manufacturing businesses in the U.S. The global company has approximately $2.5 billion in revenue and close to 7,000 employees in over 35 countries. GDI will rank among the 15 largest privately held companies in Wisconsin.
“We are excited to make Milwaukee the home of our new global headquarters,” said Peter Wallace, CEO of Gardner Denver. “The region has an impressive roster of global businesses, a strong manufacturing pedigree, and a deep talent pool for a business like ours. It is an excellent location for us.” GDI was previously headquartered in Wayne, Pennsylvania.
Gardner Denver is receiving a warm welcome from elected officials and economic development leaders.
"Gardner Denver is a great addition to our business community, and I am pleased company leaders selected Milwaukee,” Mayor Tom Barrett said. “Their decision to grow in Milwaukee says a lot about our city. We have a ready workforce, strong infrastructure, and a quality of life that business leaders appreciate.”
The City of Milwaukee expects to reimburse Gardner Denver for relocation and office build-out expenses of up to $400,000 if the company meets certain employment projections. The funds for this grant come from Tax Incremental District 56 in the City’s Third Ward.
“We are pleased to see Gardner Denver join the ranks of many other global companies that are calling Wisconsin home. Manufacturing is making a comeback in Wisconsin, and Gardner Denver will be a key player here as the industry continues to grow,” said Reed Hall, Secretary and CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). “The company’s decision is a testament to Wisconsin’s positive business climate and quality workforce.”
To help secure the relocation, WEDC has agreed to provide the company with up to $2 million in tax credits through 2020. The actual amount of credits awarded will be contingent upon the number of jobs created during that period.
"We're delighted that Gardner Denver has selected Milwaukee as its new home,” said Gale Klappa, Co-Chair of the Milwaukee 7 regional economic development group, and Chairman and CEO of Wisconsin Energy. “Companies with the scale and stature of Gardner Denver do not relocate often, and, of course, there is intense competition from other U.S. cities whenever these opportunities arise. The decision by Gardner Denver to locate here is another strong, positive sign that our assets, talent, and work ethic are attractive to global companies."