Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced further momentum of the state’s manufacturing sector as NEO Industries Inc., a world leader in surface technology for work rolls in steel and aluminum manufacturing, announced an expansion of its current operation in Ohio County with a $12.4 million investment creating 20 new full-time, quality Kentucky jobs.
“Kentucky’s manufacturing sector continues to see unprecedented growth, creating well-paying job opportunities for communities throughout the commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “NEO Industries has been serving the Kentucky manufacturing industry for over three decades, and the company’s commitment to expand and service the growing EV battery industry will further strengthen Kentucky’s position as a national leader in this market. I want to thank NEO’s leadership and look forward to their continued success in the commonwealth.”
The project will see the company expand its current manufacturing facility in Ohio County by over 30,000 square feet, bringing the total operating space to 47,000 square feet. The increased space will allow for additional capacity to chrome plate rolls and for the installation of a high-precision grinder and polisher. This additional equipment will help the company directly service the rapidly expanding electric vehicle battery industry. NEO Industries’ $12.4 million investment will create 20 full-time jobs, bringing their total Kentucky employment number to 50.
“NEO Industries is excited to further the growth and economic success of Kentucky,” said Ladislav Halaj, NEO Industries’ service center operations vice president. “With this latest investment in the Blue Grass State, our expanding manufacturing capabilities in our plant will help support the growing EV battery market by supplying new technology and job opportunities for Ohio County. We greatly appreciate the support from our local leaders as well as the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development.”
NEO Industries was established in 1952 and is the world leader in surface technology for work rolls in steel and aluminum manufacturing and press rolls for material of anode and cathode manufacturing. The company pioneered work roll plating in 1964 and remains the supplier of choice for chrome plating, grinding and texturing work rolls today. NEO’s Kentucky operation was established in 1993 and services a variety of steel, aluminum, and metals suppliers and manufacturers throughout the state. In 2021, the company started to develop the process to grind and chrome rolls to support the EV battery industry and plans to increase those efforts with this expansion.
Ohio County Judge/Executive David Johnston is excited to see the company expand in the community: “The Ohio County Fiscal Court is pleased to support NEO Industries’ business expansion. NEO Industries’ recent expansion project is the latest example of a best-in-class business growing and thriving in Ohio County. We are tremendously proud to have this global company here in Ohio County, Kentucky, and we are excited to see what the future holds.”
Jason Chinn, executive director of the Ohio County Economic Development Alliance, expressed support for the project and the company’s continued commitment to innovate: “The Ohio County Economic Development Alliance proudly supports the expansion project at NEO Industries. NEO’s innovative technology and ongoing commitment to stay ahead in this fast-moving industry make it the worldwide leader in work roll surface technology. Plant Manager Bob Lellie and his team have done a fantastic job!”
Beaver Dam Mayor Paul Sandefur noted the positive impact the investment will have on the city’s economy and manufacturing sector: “We are so pleased to see the development of this project. NEO Industries’ ongoing success, increasing investment, and job creation is another step forward for Beaver Dam’s manufacturing industry.”