OPELIKA, Ala. (WTVM) – Manufacturer GMB USA is investing $9 million into a new automotive facility in Opelika.
The facility, located at Orr Industrial Park, will produce parts used in hybrid electric vehicles. GMB chose Opelika as its first North American operation out of three other potential cities.
The facility will bring 75 new jobs to the area.
“Over the past 20 years we’ve seen close to 6,000 jobs created just in the manufacturing sector, and close to $3 billion in capital investment,” an Opelika city official said. “We’ve been very blessed. We call I-85 the gift that keeps on giving.”
City officials said the facility sends a message to other potential investors.
“It especially sends a message to other people who may be looking at our city that we have other resources,” the official said.
The official said Opelika’s growth has been driven by schools and economic opportunity.
“People will come live with you for two good reasons: schools, and a good living,” the official said. “The growth that we’ve seen, the number of new houses that have come into place, has basically kept up with our new industries.”
City officials and GMB expect production to be up and running within six months. The local economy will benefit immediately.
“There’s a short term benefit; you have construction jobs, local vendors come alongside those companies and support them and outfitting their operations,” the official said. “Whether it’s selling desks and computers, or whatever their needs are.”
Because the facility was already owned by a private entity, the city is already profiting off the $9 million initial investment.
“That immediately supports our schools, our hospitals,” the official said. “Those property taxes from day one are going to benefit our schools and the hospital.”
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