Italian synthetic leather manufacturer Vulcaflex S.p.A. recently announced that it will open its first U.S. facility in Auburn, a nearly $70 million investment expected to create 130 jobs.
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey celebrated the announcement in a statement.
“Alabama is pleased to welcome Vulcaflex to its new North American home in Auburn,” Ivey said. “I am confident Vulcaflex chose wisely in locating here and will find the community partners, skilled workforce and business-friendly environment that continues to grow Alabama’s automotive industry.”
Founded in Cotignola, Italy, in 1965, Vulcaflex manufactures advanced surface materials used in automobile interiors. The company selected Auburn Technology Park West as the home for its new U.S. facility after working with the Alabama Department of Commerce’s European Office and visiting the state. Construction preparations are underway.
“The North American market is of great importance to our company,” Vulcaflex CEO Roberto Bozzi said. “We are excited to establish in Alabama a complete production of our synthetic leather materials for the automotive industry in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.
“The combination of our unique Italian design and the local production in the U.S. will allow us to grow our market alongside globally known automotive manufacturers with assembly plants in North America,” Bozzi added.
Auburn Mayor Ron Anders praised the state and local entities involved in the project.
“We are grateful that the Bozzi family selected Auburn for their home in North America and are excited for the opportunities this partnership brings to our city, citizens and local businesses,” Anders said. “Vulcaflex selecting Auburn was the result of flawless collaboration between the state of Alabama, the city of Auburn, Auburn University, Southern Union State Community College and the utility companies.
“I am grateful to everyone involved,” Anders added. “On behalf of the City Council, we welcome the Italian company Vulcaflex to Auburn.”
Vulcaflex said it plans to hire lead technicians this fall, who will receive training at the main facility in Ravenna, Italy. Jobs will be posted on the Industrial Development Board of Auburn’s website as they become available.