The company says the $11 million investment will expand its capabilities to supply linings to its customer base for the commercial vehicle business in North America. The company says the expansion will add new equipment to its Prattville facility and will involve hiring nearly 100 employees in 2012 and 2013.
Currently, Fras-le manufactures brake lining in Brazil for global distribution and in China for distribution in Europe and Asia. The addition of brake lining production in the U.S. will increase Fras-le’s global capacity significantly, the company says. Fras-le currently manufactures disc brake pads at the Prattville facility.
“Our announcement today demonstrates our expanded commitment to the North American market and our desire to grow the business even more,” says Daniel Randon, Fras-le CEO and president. “We appreciate all the support we’ve received from officials in Prattville to help facilitate our company’s expansion. We are excited to be a part of bringing new jobs to the area.”
Randon cited Prattville Mayor Bill Gillespie and the Prattville Industrial Development Board, led by Chairman Richard Williams, for their help in bringing about the facility expansion.
“During these tough economics times, this announcement is certainly a blessing for our community,” says Gillespie. “On behalf of the City of Prattville, I applaud Fras-le and their continued growth and expansion. I also want to express my gratitude for their commitment to Prattville. We wish them much continued success in all of their endeavors.”
Fras-le brake pads and linings are available in the North American OE and aftermarket, as well as in more than 80 countries. In North America, Fras-le’s heavy-duty brake linings are exclusively distributed by Meritor’s Aftermarket group.
