SAF-HOLLAND expands Dumas AR operations

Sept. 6, 2017

SAF-HOLLAND, a leading global manufacturer of trailer suspension and axle systems, truck suspensions, fifthwheels, landing gear, and coupling products, is expanding its operations in Dumas (Desha County) AR. As part of the expansion, the company will open a new facility in the old Federal-Mogul building to accommodate increased business with current customers.

“Our investment in Dumas will enable SAF-HOLLAND to expand the North American business as we prepare for increasing market demand also in the mid-term,” said Bjoern Meyer, vice-president of operations, Americas. “It allows SAF-HOLLAND closer proximity to our OEM customers and enhances our level of service to our distributors and fleet customers. Ultimately, the location provides a means to expand our distribution network to not only support existing customers but result in additional customers.”

The expansion of the Dumas operations takes place in the overall context of the ongoing restructuring of the North American plant network. The production network is currently being centralized and placed geographically closer to the customer base of the trailer and truck industry in order to strengthen long-term competitiveness. Furthermore, the internal logistics processes are being optimized to improve lead-time responsiveness.

SAF-HOLLAND has increased its Dumas staff by over 40%, creating 60 new jobs to date with plans to end up at approximately 65 total new positions. As budgeted it will invest approx. $4 million USD in the facility for additional manufacturing/warehousing space, paint line, robotic welding cells, and other new technology and equipment thus stepping up the group’s capacities in axle and suspension systems in the Americas region

SAF-HOLLAND currently employs 143 in Dumas where it manufactures trailer suspension and axle systems for commercial vehicles including Wabash National and Great Dane trailers.

The Dumas facility has been producing trailer suspensions in its current location since 1988. SAF-HOLLAND has seen continuous growth in the facility and is planning for future growth.

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