DeKalb County Employer Plans Expansion

DeKalb Molded Plastics Co., a manufacturer of molded foam and plastic products, announced today that it will expand its operations here, creating up to 20 new jobs by 2014.

The company, which manufactures structural foam products and provides foam assembly, kitting and decorating services, will invest more than $1.2 million to purchase additional storage space and add a new molding press at its existing Butler operations.

"We appreciate DeKalb Molded Plastics' commitment to invest in the continued competitiveness of the Butler operations as well as new jobs in Indiana and making Indiana the center of its long term growth plans," said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

The company, which currently employs more than 70 associates in Butler, plans to begin hiring additional manufacturing and warehouse associates later this year as the new press becomes operational.

"We have proven we can survive during the tough economic times and have readied the company for expansion as recovery occurs. We continue to invest in our people, as well as our equipment and facility. We're excited for that growth here in Butler," said Rick Walters, president of DeKalb Molded Plastics Company. "We appreciate that Indiana values that DeKalb Molded Plastics has been doing business in Indiana for more than 30 years and supported us as we considered our growth opportunities."

Founded in 1979 DeKalb Molded Plastics serves customers in the specialty materials handling, medical enclosure and safety products markets.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered DeKalb Molded Plastics Co., up to $100,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $40,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. DeKalb County will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the DeKalb County Economic Development Partnership.

"The city of Butler is delighted to learn of the new jobs which will be created by DeKalb Molded Plastics. DeKalb Molded Plastics has been faithfully involved in local activities for a number of years. We look forward to their continued involvement in our community and congratulate them on their growth and success," said Butler Mayor Ron Walter.

DeKalb Molded Plastics' announced expansion comes just one month after tire manufacturer, Michelin North America Inc., announced its plans to invest $50 million to expand production capacity at its BFGoodrich Tire manufacturing facility in nearby Woodburn, creating up to 35 new jobs by the end of the year.