Chicago Construction News staff writer
Voortman Steel Machinery is investing $51.4 million in capital projects, bolstered by an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement that will enable the company to purchase and develop new property while increasing capacity by growing its talented workforce.
The company has purchased a 27-acre property to construct a 100,000-sq. ft. building with 20,000 sq. ft. of office and 80,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space. The expansion will allow growth and increase capabilities to provide a high quality of customer service while moving their supply chain to Illinois.
“As we break ground today, we’re not just laying the foundation for a building. We’re laying the foundation for a brighter more prosperous future for the area. We’re showing everyone that economic growth and working with local and state government can go hand in hand,” said Voortman Steel Machinery [resident Ben Morrall. “To everyone who has worked tirelessly to bring us to this moment – the architects, the engineers, the city planners, local government, Governor’s office and countless others – thank you.
“Your vision and dedication have made this possible.”
A global leading manufacturer of CNC steel processing machinery and software solutions, Netherlands-based Voortman Steel Group’s family business installs machines worldwide.
Incorporated in Illinois in 2005, Voortman USA was created to serve customers across North, Central, and South America – with North America serving as one of the company’s most vital sales regions for the last decade.
“The State of Illinois is committed to supporting Voortman Steel Machinery as it grows its American presence by expanding in Monee while creating and retaining jobs for Illinoisans,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Voortman’s advanced manufacturing investments align with the State’s priority to focus on this key sector as outlined in Illinois’ economic growth plan to advance economic development.”
As part of the State’s comprehensive incentive package, Voortman received an EDGE tax credit, and has committed to making a $51.4 million investment, creating 51 new full-time jobs and retaining 40 full-time jobs. A link to the full agreement can be found here. In calendar year 2023, companies in the EDGE program committed nearly $900 million in investments in Illinois communities across the state.
Pending an executed agreement, Voortman will also receive Invest in Illinois funding in the amount of $10 million in capital funding to the company. The Fund was signed into law in early 2023 to make Illinois more attractive when vying for large projects in highly competitive sectors. Once the agreement is executed it will be posted online.
“Voortman’s expansion in Monee is an exciting contribution to the growth of Will County manufacturing,” said Doug Pryor, President of the Will County Center for Economic Development. “Through local partnerships and strong statewide attraction and expansion tools, we are providing an environment where companies like Voortman can thrive, benefiting both our community and the wider economy.”
