Business

$40 million Meritor expansion will add 40 jobs

By Lightning Reports, Published: September 21, 2022

Meritor, a leading global supplier of drivetrain, mobility, braking, aftermarket and electric powertrain solutions for commercial vehicle and industrial markets, announced plans to expand its Fletcher plant by investing $40 million in machinery and equipment and adding 40 new jobs.

Since opening its doors in 1982, Meritor established itself as an integral part of the local economy by providing high-quality, high-paying careers to Henderson County citizens. The company will continue this 40-year legacy with the addition of  The average wage of the new positions is expected to be exceed the county average wage. The company’s investments will take place through 2026.

“There is no doubt that today’s market is a challenge. We are pleased that despite challenges, Meritor’s leadership wants to continue investing in Henderson County,” said Richard Robinson, director of operations for Meritor.

Meritor makes 70 percent of Class 8 commercial vehicle axles on the road in North America. The facility in Henderson County has close to 500 employees. The investment will be focused on new technologies that will enhance production capabilities and accelerate the Smart Factory model that many companies are adopting in order to remain competitive in today’s market.

“Existing industry is the heartbeat of Henderson County," said Stephen Gwaltney, current chair for Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development. "The Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development is focused on companies having the tools and resources to be successful. Meritor is a prime example of a company embedding itself in the community through programs like the Made in Henderson County Apprenticeship Program. We look forward to a bright future.”

In October, the company will celebrate 40 years in Henderson County. Based in Troy, Mich., Meritor serves commercial truck, trailer, off-highway, defense, specialty, and aftermarket customers around the world. The Henderson County facility uses advanced manufacturing processes in its assembly, gearing and axle housing operations.

“Before I was a commissioner, I was a civil engineer, and the Rockwell Project (Meritor) was a project that I worked on," Henderson County Board of Commissioners Chair Bill Lapsley said. "This is what economic development is all about, seeing companies grow here and take care of our citizens with quality jobs. It is a special moment to celebrate 40 years with more investment in Henderson County.”

The project was supported by economic development assistance grant in Henderson County, the OneNC fund and customized training from the North Carolina Community College System via Blue Ridge Community College.