A South Korean auto supplier has opened its first U.S.-based production facility in Tuskegee, Alabama. Samkee Corp. reportedly invested $128 million to build the factory. At full capacity, it is expected to employ over 170 people.
“Samkee is a first-class addition to Alabama’s dynamic auto industry, and the opening of this state-of-the-art facility in Tuskegee demonstrates that the industry continues to gain horsepower in the state,” Commerce Secretary McNair said. “I’m confident that Samkee will grow and thrive in its new U.S. industrial home, just as many others have done in Alabama.”
Samkee CEO Chihwan Kim said the facility will benefit the United State’s automotive supply chain and create new jobs for the region.
“We are excited to have our first U.S. manufacturing footprint here in Tuskegee. This was only possible due to strong state and local leadership and support from the entire community,” Kim said. “This important investment will help us continue our sustainable growth in the auto industry, as well as strengthen automotive supply chain in the U.S.”
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Mayor Tony Haygood echoed Kim’s anticipation.
“The City of Tuskegee is very thankful and excited to begin casting a bright future with our newest partner, Samkee America,” Haygood said. “Our rapid deployment and success in such a short period of time is an outstanding example of what we can accomplish when we all work together.”
“The new jobs and investments throughout the county will benefit our citizens for years to come.”
Samkee will now serve as a Tier 1 supplier to Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama’s assembly plant in Montgomery.
An analysis conducted by the University of Alabama showed that the factory will generate an expected $140.2 million in annual economic output in Macon County, contributing over $37 million to the county’s GDP. Additionally, new direct taxes revenues for schools and community from the project are estimated at nearly $1.5 million per year.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
