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American Howa Kentucky Announces Expansion of Bowling Green Facility Project Represents a More than $12 million Investment in Kentucky Transpark Operation Contact:
Mandy Lambert
502.564.7670
Jessica M.L. Thompson, Communications Director
270.781.3200; jessica@bgchamber.com FRANKFORT, KY (October 2, 2008) - The Governor's Executive Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet for Economic Development Interim Secretary Larry Hayes today joined company and community officials to announce the expansion of American Howa Kentucky, Inc. (AHK) in Bowling Green. The company, which just celebrated their grand opening in March, will create another 24 new jobs in the commonwealth. "The fact that American Howa Kentucky is announcing an expansion so soon after its grand opening demonstrates the positive business climate that's been cultivated in the South Central Kentucky region," said Secretary Hayes. "The commonwealth is pleased to play a role in this success and will continue to work with AHK and others across Kentucky on expansion opportunities." AHK's expansion project will add 56,000 square feet to its existing 81,294-square-foot facility, and will house three new manufacturing lines. The company manufactures various products for the automotive industry including headliners, dash insulators, and other interior items. "We are very pleased with our facility here at the Kentucky Transpark, and we're happy to continue our investment here with this announced expansion. Our location in South Central Kentucky is ideal for our business, and we look forward to much more success here," said American Howa Kentucky, Inc. President Hiroshi Senga. The project represents a more than $12 million investment in the Kentucky Transpark operation. The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority approved American Howa Kentucky for tax benefits in the amount of $120,000 under the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act. The incentive program allows approved companies to recoup sales and use tax for costs related to construction materials, building fixtures and equipment used for research and development. "Since announcing that AHK would locate at the Kentucky Transpark in 2007, this company has shown great commitment to Bowling Green and to South Central Kentucky," said Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon. "This expansion announcement is an example of how a company's decision to locate here is one of success and forward-thinking." "We just celebrated Howa's grand opening six months ago, and now we're capping off the year with another great announcement by this company," said Bowling Green Mayor Elaine Walker. "We're proud to be home to American Howa Kentucky and look forward to a long relationship with the company and its employees." Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Board of Directors Chairman Doug Gorman said, "This expansion announcement is exciting for the entire region. As Howa grows its operations here, it demonstrates that our region is an ideal place to do business. On behalf of the Chamber, I'd like to say congratulations to Howa for this expansion, as well as thank you for its continued support of our community." A community profile for Warren County can be found at http://thinkkentucky.com/EDIS/cmnty/index.aspx?cw=067. About the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development The Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development is the primary state agency in Kentucky responsible for creating new jobs and new investment in the state. New business investment in Kentucky in 2007 totaled over $2.3 billion with the creation of more than 13,800 new jobs. Information on available development sites, workforce training, incentive programs, community profiles, small business development and other resources is available at www.ThinkKentucky.com. About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. As one of only 336 chambers nationwide to be accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the fourth largest chamber in Kentucky, the Chamber serves as a premier business advocate for its more than 1,300 partners. Its primary goals are to promote growth and success in the business community, reaching its small business partners and those in large industries alike. With leadership programs, governmental relations projects, educational initiatives and involvement opportunities, the Chamber aims to support the community and its neighbors in order to enhance the business climate and continue to grow the region.
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