Lear’s new 160,000 sq ft facility is to provide seats on a just-in-time basis for future vehicle production at GM’s Flint Assembly plant, generating manufacturing jobs and economic growth to the State of Michigan. “This expansion of capacity reflects the positive outlook we have for our business as well as the favourable economic climate in Michigan, and will contribute to the revitalisation of Flint”, said Ray Scott, Executive Vice-President and President of Seating Operations, Lear.
Carmaker GM has invested more than US$2.8 billion in Flint since 2009. Having suppliers of large components located near assembly plants is said to result in significant savings from reduced transportation costs, higher quality, better communications and continuous improvement activities.
Lear acquired Eagle Ottawa, the world’s largest supplier of premium automotive leather, in January 2015.
