Manufacturing company expands operations in Delaware

Baltimore Aircoil Co., a worldwide manufacturer and marketer of heat-transfer and ice-thermal storage products, is expanding in Delaware with help from the state. The Delaware Economic Development Office awarded the firm a $166,000 performance-based grant to assist it in expanding its manufacturing operations in Milford. The investment will create 83 new jobs over two years.

“Even in the midst of historic challenges in our economy, my administration continues to support Delaware’s existing companies to grow and expand. By investing in successful businesses like Baltimore Aircoil Co., we are supporting the health and vitality of our local communities, as well as creating jobs now and for our future,” said Gov. Jack Markell.

“Baltimore Aircoil has been a significant employer and manufacturing presence in the City of Milford and the state of Delaware for more than three decades,” said Alan Levin, director of the Delaware Economic Development Office. “We are pleased to help the company grow again, which will now establish the facility as the largest Baltimore Aircoil Co. [BAC] operation in the United States.”

BAC, a division of Amsted Industries, is headquartered near Baltimore, Md., with wholly owned manufacturing operations, joint ventures and licensees around the world. BAC also plans to make a capital investment of $1.3 million in the Milford facility to include office renovations, a new truck entrance, expanded parking, expanded finished product storage yard and new equipment.

The expansion is the result of the company’s decision to relocate its operations from Illinois to Milford, as well as to an existing California plant. The Milford plant will serve customers east of the Rockies in the United States and Canada. When the expansion is complete, the Milford facility will have the largest capacity for BAC in North America and produce 60 percent of all North America volume.

“BAC is excited about its expansion in Milford and the new opportunities it brings to our business, our employees and their families, and the community,” said Greg Lowman, BAC Milford plant manager.

“We greatly appreciate the assistance provided by the state of Delaware, and the support given by the governor and Legislature. We look forward to many years of continued growth and success here in Milford.”

BAC was awarded grants in 2002 and 2003 for retention and expansion efforts, respectively. Together, the investments totaled $410,000.