Firestone Build Polish Plant

Firestone Industrial Products (FSIP), a business unit of BFS Diversified Products, LLC (BFDP), has announced that it will build a new manufacturing facility in Wolsztyn, Poland. The company’s recently formed Polish subsidiary, Firestone Industrial Products Poland, will produce air springs to support European demand from consumer and commercial vehicle original equipment manufacturers.

The new plant will employ between 100 and 200 workers in various management and production roles, and is scheduled to begin production in December. Piotr Bogaczynski has been named plant manager.

“We are excited about this opportunity to build a manufacturing facility that will satisfy European demand,” said FSIP president Mike Cerio. “We look forward to showcasing our quality air springs to additional customers and being a part of the Wolsztyn community, which has been welcoming and helpful.” FSIP originally started looking into building a facility in Poland in January 2003 in response to ongoing demand from European customers. Upon completion, the company will have invested more than $10 million in the 8.15-acre site and 80,000 square feet facility. Construction is due to begin soon and should be completed by 2004.

Wolsztyn was selected because it met all the site selection criteria and because it provided what the company saw as an attractive economic development package. The package includes development of the local infrastructure, tax exemptions, legal assistance and other investment opportunities. “It was a truly collaborative effort,” said Mr Cerio. “We appreciate the help we’ve received from everyone who was part of this process and we are very pleased with Wolsztyn as our new home.” Wolsztyn Mayor Andrzej Rogozinski said: “We are always interested in attracting new business. Firestone’s investment will have a positive impact on the local growth of our community.”