International Auto Parts Manufacturer to Open Arden Facility & Bring Jobs to Buncombe County

October 19, 2010

In conjunction with the NC Department of Commerce, Buncombe County, and the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County (EDC), Reich GmbH of Mellrichstadt, Germany announced plans today to expand its operations to the United States with the establishment of a precision vehicle parts manufacturing facility in Buncombe County’s Vista Industrial Center.

In conjunction with the NC Department of Commerce, Buncombe County, and the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County (EDC), Reich GmbH of Mellrichstadt, Germany announced plans today to expand its operations to the United States with the establishment of a precision vehicle parts manufacturing facility in Buncombe County’s Vista Industrial Center. Limited production of precision parts for steering systems, transmissions and engines will begin at the facility in the first quarter of 2011, and the company estimates the creation of 56 highly skilled machinist and production jobs while investing $28 million over the next three years, with further growth over a five-year period. Reich GmbH is an international supplier of vehicle parts and specialty ball bearings. A family owned company with almost nine decades of experience and a workforce of over 600 employees, Reich produces gears and gear parts for transmissions, fuel injection parts, and other precision parts for cars and trucks. Customers include internationally recognized automotive suppliers such as Bosch, Continental and ZF. The Buncombe County plant will be the company’s second manufacturing facility. General Manager of the facility, Christian Helfricht, stated, “The decision to expand our operations in Buncombe County fulfills our long-term commitment to serving our North American customers. The Asheville area’s metalworking legacy and the strong skill set of its manufacturing workforce captured our attention and made this location the best choice for our new facility.” Chairman of the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners, David Gantt, offered the county’s continuing support and stated, “Reich represents the finest of manufacturing and craftsmanship. Bringing together the resources of a manufacturing leader like Reich and the strengths of our local workforce creates quality career opportunities and economic growth for Buncombe County for generations to come.” Chairman of the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County (EDC), K. Ray Bailey, thanked the NC Department of Commerce, Buncombe County, and Sperry Van Ness/Whitney Commercial Real Estate for their collaboration with Reich’s site selection group. Bailey added, “Economic development is a sport of partnership. Each project that the EDC works on involves a host of partners who are committed to enhancing Buncombe County’s economic future and to growing job opportunities.” For more information about Reich, including job opportunities, go to www.reich-gmbh.com/1-1-Home.html.