Trailer Manufacturer Pulls Into Conway

Interstate Group plans to begin manufacturing cargo trailers in Conway in a refurbished facility. The company will employ about 40 by the end of the year with a projected long-term total of 100. Renovation of several buildings in the former Spirit Homes facility is under way and production will begin in September.
        "We looked at Tennessee and Texas before selecting Arkansas for our new operation," says Michael Snow, president of Interstate Group. "We chose Conway because of its excellent location and because of the opportunity to use an existing mobile home facility that's a natural fit for our product. Also, there is a labor base there that's a natural fit for our product. All of these considerations will mean a lower cost of doing business."
        Interstate operates with a team-based, piece-rate approach. After an initial start-up period, wages will average $14-$15 an hour, Snow says. Headquartered in Phoenix, Interstate produces a full line of work and recreation trailers.