Phoenix Contact officials from Germany and the U.S. marked 25 years of U.S. operations by breaking ground for a $12 million expansion project at U.S. headquarters in Middletown, Pa.
CEO Klaus Eisert and other Phoenix Contact representatives performed the ceremonial “first dig” for a new 45,000-square-foot distribution center and the expansion of the company’s manufacturing facility from 28,000 to 90,000 square feet, necessary to keep up with recent growth.
“It’s exciting to see our continued rapid growth in the U.S., even in our 25th year of operation,” said Jack Nehlig, president of Phoenix Contact USA. “At Phoenix Contact we consistently deliver exciting new products to our customers, providing unparalleled support and service.”
“The market chances with the product range completed by surge voltage protection, Interface modules and automation technology have not changed today. We will do our utmost to provide for more marketability and thus for more customer satisfaction,” said Eisert
Phoenix Contact manufactures specialized electronic components and connection systems. World headquarters are located in Blomberg, Germany. The U.S. subsidiary employed five people when it was established in Harrisburg in 1981. In 1985, the company moved to Middletown, where most of its 415 employees work today.
Strong sales growth in recent years has led not only to the expansion of physical facilities, but also to increased employment. One hundred twenty new employees have been hired during the past year and a half, and the company plans to add 250 more by 2010.
The new distribution center, slated for completion in 2007, is needed to address the rapid growth of product distribution through the Middletown facility. The manufacturing expansion is expected to be completed by 2008.