Whirlpool plans to invest $65 million into built-in and other high-end refrigerators production line in their Ottawa, Ohio, freezer factory. This multi-year investment is part of an ongoing effort to position the plant as its premium refrigeration factory in North America.
The expansion of the plant will begin in mid-2022, and the factory should reach full production by 2023. Cost will expand production capacity for the built-in refrigerator category growth at the former W.C. Wood freezer. The capital will also create more than 100 jobs for the Midwest factory town. The project in contingent upon approval of state and local incentives.
In 2009 Whirlpool acquired the plant from bankruptcy. It currently produces freezers, under counter ice makers, and hybrid heat pump bases for ventless dryers for the company’s Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Amana, Maytag, Gladiator and JennAir brands.
“We’re excited about this investment in the future of the Ottawa operations and in our people,” said Don Metzelaar, Whirlpool’s VP of Integrated Supply Chain and Quality. “This is a testament to our skilled workforce, and will unlock our potential to bring the newest and best refrigeration innovation to our customers who count on us to improve their lives at home.”
