Universal Logistics Holdings Inc. has unveiled ambitious plans for a substantial expansion in Roanoke, Virginia, signaling a strategic move to bolster its Class 8 truck parts sub assembly division.
The company is set to invest $50 million in expanding its Lee Highway facility by an impressive 254,000 square feet, with the project slated for completion in 2025.
This sizable expansion is expected to have a transformative impact, creating 45 direct jobs and significantly amplifying Universal Logistics' capacity to meet the burgeoning demands within the heavy truck industry.
Universal's CEO, Tim Phillips, expressed enthusiasm about the venture, highlighting its pivotal role in fortifying the company's commitment to providing top-tier services in the logistics and transportation sectors.
In a recent news release, Phillips underscored the strategic importance of the Roanoke expansion, emphasizing its alignment with Universal's growth trajectory. The move is a testament to the company's dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the heavy truck market.
“Our expansion in the Roanoke region represents an exciting phase for Universal’s heavy truck division as we fortify our commitment to delivering top-tier services within the logistics and transportation sectors,” Phillips said.
Warren, Michigan-based Universal Logistics (NASDAQ: ULH) is renowned for its comprehensive logistics services, spanning truckload, brokerage, intermodal, dedicated, and subassembly parts, covering operations in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, and Colombia.
The Roanoke expansion is poised to further enhance the company's capabilities and geographical reach.
However, the announcement did not specify which Class 8 truck manufacturers would be served by the Roanoke facility. FreightWaves reached out for comments, but company officials were not immediately available.
Roanoke, Virginia, is already a significant hub for truck manufacturing, with Mack Trucks having a production facility in the area.
Additionally, Volvo Trucks USA operates the expansive New River Valley Class 8 truck assembly plant in nearby Dublin, Virginia.
This expansion initiative is part of Universal Logistics Holdings Inc.'s broader strategy within the logistics conglomerate led by the Moroun family. The conglomerate also includes the iconic Ambassador Bridge in Detroit.
Universal Logistics' commitment to growth is further evident in its involvement in the electric vehicle (EV) sector.
In July, General Motors announced a new EV parts logistics facility in Detroit, which will be managed by Universal's subsidiary, Logistics Insight Corp. This facility, expected to generate 400 jobs, is scheduled to commence operations by the end of 2024.
Moreover, Universal Logistics plays a key role in the automotive sector, operating a substantial 1 million-square-foot parts sequencing plant in Detroit, serving Netherlands-based automaker Stellantis. This facility, which provides employment for over 500 people, reflects Universal Logistics' diverse and impactful presence across various sectors within the logistics and transportation industry.
Comments