Wilsonart, open for business
/New Wilsonart Klamath Falls facility boosts economic momentum in local community. Facility opening creates jobs and stimulates economic growth for years to come.
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The following is a press release from Wilsonart.
KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - Wilsonart, a world-leading engineered surfaces company, announced that production is officially underway at its new manufacturing facility in Klamath Falls, Ore. Since breaking ground one year ago, the plant is now operational, and the company is already making a positive impact on the local economy and community.
“We are excited to be up and running and are grateful to the Klamath community for its support in getting us to this point,” said Ron Ubertini, vice president of product management at Wilsonart. “The added capacity that this facility represents will enable us to serve our customers more efficiently and effectively.”
Selected for its strategic West Coast location, plentiful labor pool and warm welcome, Klamath Falls has proven an ideal location for Wilsonart’s newest manufacturing facility, which primarily produces thermally-fused laminate (TFL) in all of the finishes offered under the KML and Wilsonart brands. The new facility came to fruition during a critical growth period for Wilsonart, and during an opportune time to help stimulate Southern Oregon’s economy.
Highlights of Wilsonart's economic impact to the Klamath Falls community, as reported by the Klamath County Economic Development Association (KCEDA), include:
Induced Job Creation: The new Wilsonart facility could bring an estimated 130 jobs to Klamath County, including 50 direct jobs and 80 “spin-off” jobs indirectly created over the next 10 years (based on the industry multiplier).
Comparative Impact: Based on labor force statistics for the Portland Metro area, the economic impact of the Wilsonart plant on Klamath County (from a direct jobs standpoint) will be the equivalent of adding a 16,000 person employer to Portland.
County Business Support: It is estimated that the expanded workforce surrounding the new Klamath facility has spent in excess of $150,000 in local hotels and restaurants.
Local Education: As a result of the new development and estimated relocations, it is anticipated that the Klamath County school district will receive $150,000 in additional revenue on an annual basis.
Tax Revenue: Once the Enterprise Zone program has expired, annual tax revenue to Klamath County related to the Wilsonart facility is estimated to bring $325,000-$350,000 a year to the region.
“We’re experiencing great economic momentum right now in Klamath County and the addition of Wilsonart has played an integral role in this positive shift,” said Randy Cox, CEO for KCEDA. “Not only has the opening of this facility helped to drive local job growth but Wilsonart has made a genuine investment in being an active member of our community.”
In addition to its positive impact on the local economy, Wilsonart has made concerted efforts to establish itself as an involved and caring member of the Klamath Falls business community. From scholarship programs with Klamath Community College to equipment and monetary donations that support critical organizations in the area, Wilsonart is committed to investing in the community and people of Klamath County.
“Since day one, the people of Klamath Falls have welcomed us with open arms,” Ubertini added. “We look forward to playing a meaningful role in the community for many years to come.”