Grob $24M expansion progressing

BLUFFTON — Grob Systems, in Bluffton, maker of equipment enabling automakers to produce engines and transmissions, has broken ground for its $24-million, 135,000-square-foot expansion. It will increase production and shipping space at Grob's plant by about 35%, the company reported. The addition is expected to be completed in March 2025. The Bluffton plant is Grob's U.S. headquarters. "With the expanded facility, we will increase our production of manufacturing systems for new technologies in the United States – most importantly, systems for the production of batteries," said Michael Hutecker, chief executive officer of Grob Systems. With the expansion, Grob will be adding 200 jobs which will pay an average of $52,000 per year, excluding benefits. The company currently employs about 838. Grob's new space will house many of its sub-assembly departments to support final production in the main plant. On the logistical side, the expansion will provide shipping with two new depressed docks bringing the total to three docks, further increasing the efficiency of shipping and receiving for Grob. The expanded space will be located on the east side of Grob's footprint. "Demonstrating our strong, unwavering commitment to U.S. manufacturing, Grob has been investing in and expanding the Bluffton location since the first building was constructed in 1991," Hutecker said. "Our new, large East Building expansion represents the success of our manufacturing systems and automation solutions being produced in the United States and providing timely, locally-based service and support to our customers." Grob officials noted the role its employees have played in the company's success. "We have been fortunate to employ highly skilled employees who have greatly contributed to our success for over 30 years," Chief Financial Officer Annette Heslep said. "We are excited to continue our growth in this community and the U.S. by committing to add another 200 jobs over the next three years and offer the latest machining and automation technology." Grob Systems manufactures predominantly for the automotive industry, but it also produces for the aerospace, mold and die industries and for the production of medical instruments. Grob Systems is a subsidiary of Grob-Werke GmbH & Co. of Mindelheim, Germany. The Grob Group includes manufacturing facilities in Germany, Brazil, the United States, China and Italy. The state has approved a $1.2 million grant to the village of Bluffton for road improvements in the area of Grob's campus, 1070 Navaho Drive. A roundabout will be built on Ohio 103 and the intersection with Navaho Drive. In addition, Navajo Drive will be rebuilt from Ohio 103 to Pocono Drive.