Auto Supplier Begins $25M Expansion

North American Lighting recently announced plans to begin the fourth expansion of its Paris, Illinois plant since 2002. The $25 million, 54,000 square-foot project should bring 50 new jobs to the largest employer in a city of just over 8,400. The two facilities in Paris currently employ about 1,700 workers. North American Lighting also has plants in Flora and Salem, Illinois.

This latest expansion is driven by the implementation of multi-colored lighting products that are becoming more popular in higher-end Lincoln and Lexus vehicles. The new multi-colored injection presses should improve precision and output quantities while tasking fewer pieces of equipment. The new, multi-colored lens features a clear face and black trim.

The Paris plant is launching five new product lines this year, including one for Honda that began operations earlier this week. The plant operates three shifts for molding and two for assembly. The assembly portion of the process has become an efficiency focal point with typical headlamps comprising 100 separate components, and newer lamps containing as many as 170 parts.

This latest plant addition is scheduled for completion next spring. Its location qualifies it for a sales tax exemption on building materials, manufacturing machinery, and equipment. The company is also eligible for state tax credits.

John Shimkus, the U.S. Representative for the area, described the company’s success as based on providing good paying jobs with great benefits. He went on to say this growth demonstrates a need and desire for workers who are willing to arrive on time and put in a full day’s work.