Lefko USA Inc., a Canadian-based advanced plastics manufacturer, will build a new, 70,000-square-foot U.S. headquarters in New Braunfels, city and state officials announced in separate statements Thursday.
Blow-molded plastic products like fuel tanks, recreational-vehicle components, hospital bed parts and other specialty products will be manufactured at the facility.
Lefko’s investment is expected to generate more than $640 million in total economic output by 2030 and support over 550 direct jobs and indirect jobs across the New Braunfels area, according to New Braunfels city officials, who hailed the city’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and advanced manufacturing.
The project represents more than $15 million in capital investment.
Lefko’s decision was supported and encouraged by the New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation, the Texas Governor’s Office of Economic Development and Tourism, and the greater SATX Regional Economic Development Partnership.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott sweetened the deal with $968,500 in Texas Enterprise Funds and a $19,000 veteran-created job bonus.
Comal County commissioners last week approved an eight-year deal that will rebate 54% of property taxes to the new facility.
Lefko CEO Eric Blondeau said Texas’ commitment to advanced manufacturing and its central location give his company the competitive advantage it needs to serve both national and global markets.
“The collaboration with New Braunfels city leaders and the State of Texas made the difference in our final choice, and we look forward to a long and successful future here,” he said.
Lefko’s decision to locate its new facility in New Braunfels drew praise from local leaders.
New Braunfels Mayor Neal Linnartz said the investment means real jobs and new opportunities for New Braunfels families.
“We look forward to working together with Lefko to make sure that our city benefits in ways that strengthen our economy and our quality of life,” he said.
Republican state Sen. Donna Campbell and Republican state Rep. Carrie Isaac, who represent Canyon Lake in the Texas legislature, also welcomed the company, which serves the recreation, power sports, medical, industrial and trucking sectors.
“Welcome to Central Texas, Lefko USA.,” Isaac said. “We are proud to share our values with you as you grow here.”
“The addition of Lefko’s advanced plastic manufacturing operations strengthens the region’s industrial base, diversifies our local economy, and reinforces Texas’s reputation as the nation’s best state for business,” Campbell said.
Comal County Pct. 3 Commissioner Kevin Webb said Lefko’s decision reinforces the county’s role as a “strategic nexus for manufacturers seeking to innovate, expand and succeed in our region.”