Opelika, Alabama Logistically Suited For Continued Growth

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hy Opelika? This question is being asked of a growing list of world-class industries who have chosen to make Opelika, Alabama their newest facility location.
   Since January, 2005, Opelika has announced the creation of more than 700 new jobs, and more than $170 million in capital investment by these companies who found Opelika's unique mix of advantages just what they were looking for.
   Jo-Ann Stores, Inc. completed construction in December 2005 on a 700,000 sq. ft. distribution center that will employ 425, and will represent a capital investment of $46 million. Jo-Ann Stores is the nation's largest retailer of fabrics, and one of the largest retailers of crafts.
   In April 2005, Opelika officials announced the location of Gambro Renal Products, a Swedish healthcare company. Gambro will invest more than $100 million in the Opelika facility, and will employ 162 associates to manufacturer kidney dialyzers.
   In 2005 the city benefited from the growth of the automotive industry in Alabama and expect continued growth with the announcement that Kia will construct an automotive assembly plant less than 20 minutes away in nearby West Point, Georgia.
   Already three of the top 100 global OEM automotive parts suppliers have a presence in Opelika: BF Goodrich, Benteler Automotive, and Mando America Corporation.
   In January 2006, Maxforma Plastics LLC, a division of South Korean manufacturer Hanwha L&C, completed construction of their new facility to produce plastic bumper components for Hyundai Motor Manufacturing of Alabama. Maxforma has invested over $14 million in the facility and is on track to hire more than 100 employees.
   Opelika's ideal location along Interstate 85, its proximity to Alabama's largest educational institution, Auburn University, and its availability of more than 1,800 acres in the premier Northeast Opelika Industrial Park, along with a host of other key advantages, will continue to position this thriving community for continued growth and success in the coming years and provides the answer to the question, "Why Opelika?"