Heartland RV to expand operations
RV and travel trailer manufacturer Heartland has announced it will expand its operations and create up to 265 new jobs in the next three years.
The company will invest more than $2.6 million to purchase and equip a 125,000-square foot manufacturing facility in Elkhart, Indiana.
"We're excited about Heartland RV's announcement to expand their operations in Elkhart," said Mayor Dick Moore. "This shows the resiliency of the RV industry. Elkhart has been and will continue to be the RV Capital of the World."
Heartland announced in February that it had purchased the remaining trademarks of the towable brands of Fleetwood Enterprises, which filed for bankruptcy protection in 2009. The acquisition will allow it to expand its business into markets in the western U.S.
The company currently employs more than 900 associates across North Central Indiana. Officials say they plan to begin hiring additional manufacturing and supervisory associates immediately as the new product lines are phased in.
"Our ability to gain ground in a down market has clearly positioned Heartland to make tremendous market share gains and further grow our dealer body in 2010," said Heartland's president and CEO Brian Brady. "We have been proactive to make sure that we are in step with demand, growing our workforce, expanding our Elkhart complex and making sure we continue delivering product at industry-best standards. This is shaping up to be the best year in our history."