State of Illinois incentive package supports advanced manufacturing
Dutch-owned Voortman’s $51.4 million will invest in capital expenditures, bolstered by an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement from the Prairie State, will enable the company to purchase and develop new property while increasing capacity by growing its talented workforce. Incorporated in Illinois in 2005, Voortman USA was created to serve customers across North, Central, and South America – with North America serving as one of the company’s most vital sales regions for the last decade.
“With new incentives and nation-leading energy abundance and among the best workforce training, Illinois has once again become a destination for businesses looking to expand in Illinois and those looking to move here,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We’re proud to be the US headquarters of Voortman Steel Machinery and to see it grow right here in Monee—creating good jobs and economic opportunity for the people of this region.”
Voortman has purchased a 27-acre property to construct a 100,000-square-foot building with 20,000 square feet of office and 80,000 square feet of warehouse space. The expansion will allow the company to respond to increased customer demand and company growth by increasing headcount and capabilities to provide a high quality of customer service while moving their supply chain to Illinois.
As a global leading manufacturer of CNC steel processing machinery and software solutions, catering to diverse industries, Netherlands-based Voortman Steel Group’s family business has continued to grow since its humble beginnings in 1968. From its early days building steel structures, to developing steel processing machines, the company has now installed countless machines worldwide.
“Illinois is quickly becoming a top choice for innovative companies like Voortman Steel Machinery,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton, ‘Illinois is open for business,’ fostering growth that will build a lasting impact on the success of our communities, bringing well paid jobs to the local world-class workforce. Illinois’ advantages including our central location, great infrastructure, and excellent workforce, coupled with improved incentives are leading to manufacturing growth in Illinois.”
“Now, we’re not just laying the foundation for a building. We’re laying the foundation for a brighter more prosperous future for the area. We’re showing everyone that economic growth and working with local and state government can go hand in hand,” said Voortman Steel Machinery President Ben Morrall. “To everyone who has worked tirelessly to bring us to this moment – the architects, the engineers, the city planners, local government, Governor’s office and countless others – thank you. Your vision and dedication have made this possible.”
As part of the State’s comprehensive incentive package, Voortman received an EDGE tax credit, and has committed to making a $51.4 million investment, creating 51 new full-time jobs and retaining 40 full-time jobs. Pending an executed agreement, Voortman will also receive “Invest in Illinois” funding in the amount of $10 million in capital funding to the company. The Fund was signed into law in early 2023 to make Illinois more attractive when vying for large projects in highly competitive sectors. Once the agreement is executed it will be posted online.
© Voortman Steel Group, The Netherlands