Expansion Management

Just Like Old Times at Chrysler

Feb. 4, 2012

Well at least in terms of the number of shifts that the Belvidere, Ill. Assembly Plant (BVP) is running.

Back in March 2008 the plant ran three shifts with about 3,600 employees.

On Feb. 2 the company announced it would add 1,800 jobs to bring back that third shift.

Of course times have changed and the plant will produce the new Dodge Dart, using a new philosophy.

The new philosophy, called the 3-2-120 schedule, utilizes three crews, working four 10-hour straight-time days per week for a total of 120 hours of production time.

Belvidere is the first facility to build a Chrysler Group vehicle featuring a Fiat-derived architecture, adapted from Alfa Romeo Giulietta.

It must feel great to be back up to speed.

Chrysler has been steadily adding jobs since it was reborn in 2009 and is up to 4,000 new jobs.

And the good news keeps pouring is as the company's was able to report a net income of $183 million for full-year 2011, a dramatic improvement from its loss of $652 million in 2010.

About the Author

Adrienne Selko Blog | Senior Editor

Focus: Expansion Management & the Biotech & Life Sciences Industries

Email: [email protected]

Follow Adrienne on Twitter: @ASelkoIW

Call: 216-931-9235

Senior Editor Adrienne Selko manages IndustryWeek’s Expansion Management, delivering ideas and information about how successful manufacturers leverage location to gain competitive advantage. She explores the strategies behind why companies located their headquarters, research institutes, factories, warehouse and distribution centers and other facilities where they did, and how they benefit from the decision.

Adrienne is also the editorial coordinator of the IndustryWeek Expansion Management Roundtable events, which unites economic development professionals to network and discuss the latest trends in site location.

As well, Adrienne tells the stories of successful companies in the biotechnology and life sciences industries.

In the past, Adrienne has managed IndustryWeek’s award-winning website, overseeing eNewletters, webinars, and contributed content. Before joining the staff, Adrienne was managing editor of corporate publications at a large regional financial institution. She also ran a public relations and marketing company that published a best-selling healthcare book.

Adrienne received a bachelor’s of business administration from the University of Michigan and is especially interested in wellness and natural health.