Subaru announces plans for $140 million plant expansion in Lafayette

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Published: Wednesday, 23 September 2015 17:51

INDIANAPOLIS – Gov. Mike Pence announced Monday (Sept. 21) Subaru of Indiana Automotive has expansion plans and as many as 1,204 jobs will be created by 2017.

“Last week’s meetings with government leaders and business executives across Japan have strengthened our economic ties with companies operating in Indiana and sparked momentum for job creation in the Hoosier State,” said Pence in a statement. “Subaru chose Indiana as the home for its only assembly plant outside Japan, and now the company is choosing Indiana once more.”  

Subaru announced it will invest more than $140 million to increase production capacity by nearly 100,000 units annually. The existing facility in Lafayette will get new machinery and equipment to handle the production increase. Indiana’s plant manufactures the Subaru Outback, Legacy and Toyota Camry.

“SIA associates do an outstanding job of building superior quality into every vehicle, which has helped propel the Subaru brand to tremendous success in the North American market. SIA’s investment of approximately $140 million and the creation of over 1,000 new jobs at SIA over the next two years will enable SIA to build more Subarus to help meet the growing demand,” Tom Easterday, executive vice president of SIA, said in a statement. “The substantial increase in production volume at SIA will also result in new jobs and investment by many of our suppliers across Indiana. We greatly appreciate the support of state and local government for this significant economic development project.”

At present, slightly more than 3,800 employees make about 300,000 vehicles each year at the plant.

Pence returned from Japan Friday. It was his second trade mission to the country during his time as governor.

“This news marks yet another significant investment in our growing community,” said Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski in a statement. “It’s a testament to our skilled workforce, positive business environment, quality of life and the company’s confidence in continued success here.”