The Economy

Mazak Expansion Plans in the Works

April 14, 2011

Machine-tool builder cites 'continued upswing in business in the Midwest.'

Florence, Ky.-based Mazak Corp. today said it is planning to expand its Midwest Headquarters and Technology Center in Schaumburg, Ill.,

The company, which is the North American manufacturing, sales and support arm of Japan-based machine-tool builder, Yamazaki Mazak Corp., cited the "continued upswing in business in the Midwest."

"The vibrant manufacturing market and our long-term commitment to customers in the Midwest convinced us to accelerate our expansion plans of our technology center in Illinois," Mazak President Brian Papke said. "In line with our new Southwest Headquarters and Technology Center in Houston and a new $9 million investment in our Kentucky plant, the goal of the Midwest expansion is to continuously serve our customers with solutions for improved manufacturing productivity to competitiveness of North American manufacturing."

Mazak plans to expand its Midwest Headquarters and Technology Center in Schaumburg, Ill. (pictured here). The expanded facility will feature a new auditorium space, more room for seminars, and a spacious area for customer turnkey projects and test cuts, as well as expanded machine tool technology demonstration facilities, according to the company. Mazak said it plans to move quickly on the Midwest expansion project, with a grand opening targeted for April 2012. The company noted it will keep customers up to date on the latest details of the expansion via its social media outlets and website. See Also:

"Mazak Increases Production for 2011"

About the Author

Josh Cable | Former Senior Editor

Former Senior Editor Josh Cable covered innovation issues -- including trends and best practices in R&D, process improvement and product development. He also reported on the best practices of the most successful companies and executives in the world of transportation manufacturing, which encompasses the aerospace, automotive, rail and shipbuilding sectors.

Josh also led the IndustryWeek Manufacturing Hall of Fame, IW’s annual tribute to the most influential executives and thought leaders in U.S. manufacturing history.

Before joining IndustryWeek, Josh was the editor-in-chief of Penton Media’s Government Product News and Government Procurement. He also was an award-winning beat reporter for several small newspapers in Northeast Ohio.

Josh received his BFA in creative writing from Bowling Green University, and continued his professional development through course-work at Ohio University and Cuyahoga Community College.

A lifelong resident of the Buckeye State, Josh currently lives in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. When the weather cooperates, you’ll find him riding his bike to work, exercising his green thumb in the backyard or playing ultimate Frisbee.