Aspen Custom Trailers, an Alberta, Canada-based leading manufacturer of heavy haul commercial trailers, has selected Waco for its first greenfield operation in the United States. The company will operate as Aspen Custom Trailers US and has received local support for the project, which will add jobs, bring new investment and serve as a center for Aspen’s manufacturing, service and sales operations across a wide, multi-state region.
Aspen manufactures trailers for six market segments, ranging from oilfield and OEM needs to heavy and super-haul trailers. The Waco facility will begin operations with a certified service center and showroom, followed by manufacturing and other operations.
“After months of planning, we can finally share we’re bringing Aspen’s capabilities to Texas” says Phil Johnston, Aspen’s President. He adds, “Heavy haul is an exciting industry and our customers are facing new challenges every day as loads gets larger and equipment gets more advanced. To continue to grow their businesses safety and profitably, our customers need new heavy haul solutions and superior technical support. Our new location in Waco allows us to deliver this and strengthen our commitment to help move the World forward by providing the very best custom heavy haul trailers.”
Aspen Custom Trailers’ project represents a $11 million investment with opportunity for expansion. The investment includes the construction of a 58,000 plus square-foot facility and advanced manufacturing equipment. Over three years, Aspen anticipates the creation of almost 80 new skilled production, service and professional services jobs.
Aspen Custom Trailers’ decision to locate in Greater Waco represents a regional collaboration for economic development between Waco and McLennan County, with both organizations partnering to provide incentive support for the project.
“It is wonderful to see the collaborative work on this project come to fruition with this announcement and it certainly speaks volumes about the abundance of attributes in our community that Aspen chose Waco for its first US manufacturing operation. Our skilled workforce is readied for this great addition to Waco’s dynamic manufacturing sector,” said Kyle Deaver, Waco Mayor.
“We are very pleased to welcome Aspen Custom Trailers into McLennan County’s manufacturing community. Aspen Custom Trailers is known for producing a high quality product primarily due to having a well trained staff that takes pride in their work,” said McLennan County Judge Scott Felton who also serves as President of Waco McLennan County Economic Development Corporation. The company has received approval for a grant through the Waco McLennan County Economic Development Corporation for incentivized land pricing and job creation. In addition, Aspen has been approved for a property tax abatement from the City of Waco and McLennan County that will phase in the company’s taxes over several years. Both agreements are based upon investment and job commitments.