Production Heating Up At Electrolux Plant

Using assembly lines, lasers and robotic arms, the Memphis facility is making cooking ranges and ovens for sale at major retailers. Heavily backed by politicians and supported by $150 million in incentives provided by taxpayers, the plant carries great expectations as a long-term job producer.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Production is heating up at the big Electrolux kitchen oven plant in Memphis.

Electrolux officials on Thursday led Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and state and local politicians on a grand-opening tour of the 750,000-square-foot factory located at an industrial park in southwest Memphis.

Using assembly lines, lasers and robotic arms, the facility is making cooking ranges and ovens for sale at major retailers. Heavily backed by politicians and supported by $150 million in incentives provided by taxpayers, the plant carries great expectations as a long-term job producer.

Jack Truong, president and CEO of Electrolux Major Appliances North America, says 550 people are currently working at the plant, and 700 more will be added in the next five years as production nears top levels at 600,000 ovens annually.

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