Doyle Announces $1.6 Million to Help Grow J.L. French in Sheboygan

Project Expected to Create 100 New Jobs


 


SHEBOYGAN – Governor Jim Doyle today announced a $1.6 million state loan for J.L. French Automotive Castings, Inc., a Sheboygan auto parts manufacturer, to upgrade and expand its operations.  The company’s project is expected to create 100 new, good-paying jobs for the area and help grow the local economy.


 


“Manufacturing has been the base of our state economy for generations,” Governor Doyle said.  “As we prepare for the economy of the future, we must continue our support for the workers and businesses that have always been our state’s hallmark.  J.L. French is one of Wisconsin’s fine companies, creating good, family supporting jobs for Wisconsin citizens.”

“We are pleased to receive this support from the State of Wisconsin,” said Jack Falcon, J.L. French chairman, president and CEO. “The automotive supply industry is continuing to progress through a significant transformation and J.L. French is doing the same. 
The support helps us continue our journey to be “the best” supplier to our customers, and a great place to work for our people.  We’re grateful, and hope this is just the start of an expanded collaboration.”

J.L. French Automotive Castings, Inc., is a leading global designer and manufacturer of engineered aluminum die cast automotive parts, including oil pans, engine front covers, engine blocks and transmission cases.  Based in Sheboygan, the company also has manufacturing facilities in Glasgow, Ky., Ansola, Spain, as well as a joint venture in Chongqing, China. 



The company is upgrading its technology and equipment to produce additional aluminum castings for the auto industry. Total investment for these projects is $16 million.


For more information on Commerce programs and services, contact the Commerce Area development manager at http://commerce.wi.gov/BD/BD-FAX-0901.html.