Governor Phil Bredesen and Tennessee Economic and Community Development Commissioner Matt Kisber announced that New York-based Columbus McKinnon Corporation plans to invest approximately $3.5 million to expand its operation in Lexington, Tenn., retaining 172 jobs and creating approximately 25 new jobs over the next three years.
“The jobs that Columbus McKinnon will retain and create with this expansion project are the type of solid manufacturing jobs on which Tennessee’s economy has thrived for decades,” Governor Phil Bredesen said. “We appreciate the company’s investment in Henderson County and congratulate its leadership on this exciting new chapter for the Lexington community.”
“Columbus McKinnon is a powerful brand that crosses both geographic and industrial borders, and we at the state level are proud to partner in its expansion here in Tennessee,” Commissioner Kisber said. “We look forward to supporting Columbus McKinnon through continual growth for years to come.”
“In making our decision, we considered the improvements in quality, efficiency, productivity and customer service at the Lexington operation, along with the facility’s excellent safety culture and strong leadership. All of these factors are necessary for success in today’s demanding business environment,” said Chuck Giesige, Columbus McKinnon Vice President. “We were also very impressed with the level of support we received from the City of Lexington, Henderson County, the State of Tennessee and the Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce.”
The Lexington chain facility, also known as the CM Chain operation, makes a variety of chain and assembly designs for industrial applications, primarily used for overhead lifting, positioning and load securement. The Lexington plant also supplies electric hoist chain to the company’s various hoist manufacturing locations. CMCO is a recognized leader in the industrial and entertainment hoist business.
The 165,000-square-foot Lexington facility, which was established in 1971, houses operations including welding, assembly, heat treating and finishing of chain and chain assemblies. The expansion will include infrastructure improvements such as building modifications and power upgrades, as well as the addition of chain manufacturing and heat treating equipment.
“Columbus McKinnon has been a part of Lexington's industrial community for nearly 40 years, and we're very proud that they have chosen to not only continue that relationship, but expand upon it, given the current economic climate,” Lexington Mayor Bobby Dyer said. “I believe this expansion project is a testament to all of the things that this state and this community have sought to accomplish in terms of being a business-friendly community with a dedicated, quality workforce.”
As new employment positions are identified, they will be posted at the Tennessee Career Center in Lexington. Applicants must apply at the Career Center, located at 67 West Church Street.
About Columbus McKinnon
Columbus McKinnon is a leading worldwide designer, manufacturer and marketer of material handling products, systems and services, which efficiently and ergonomically move, lift, position or secure material. Key products include hoists, cranes, actuators, chain and forged attachments. The company is focused on commercial and industrial applications that require the safety and quality required by its superior design and engineering know-how. Columbus McKinnon routinely posts news and other comprehensive information on its Web site at www.cmworks.com.
About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s mission is to create higher skilled, better paying jobs for all Tennesseans. The department seeks to attract new corporate investment in Tennessee and works with Tennessee companies to facilitate expansion and economic growth. To find out more, go to www.tn.gov/ecd.