On Monday, December 19, Gränges reportedly broke ground on an expansion at its Newport facility to boost aluminium battery cathode foil (BCF) production. This investment positions Gränges as the first company in the US to fund BCF production. BCF is a crucial component for lithium-ion batteries, which is used in the production of electric vehicles.
Gränges Americas President, Patrick Lawlor, said: “We continue to invest in the foil industry benefiting our customers, employees and the communities in which we operate. Gränges is excited to lead the way in battery foil development partnering with the State of Arkansas to invest in this exciting new high-growth industry.”
The objective behind expanding the facility is to fulfil the increased demand for battery cathode foil in electric vehicles and markets moving toward battery-driven electrification. The expansion will also create 43 new jobs.
Governor Asa Hutchinson said, “Gränges is a great example of how foreign direct investment improves economic conditions for Arkansas communities, but also how our state’s business climate improves the bottom line for the international companies who choose to locate here. From a dedicated workforce to low business costs to a central location for distribution, Arkansas is gaining recognition throughout the world as a state that prioritizes company needs and new technologies from research to market. I’m pleased that Gränges chose Arkansas and look forward to watching them continue to grow and prosper."
Gränges Newport facility has a long history of high-end foil application development. Secretary of Commerce, Mike Preston, said: “Arkansas is pleased that Gränges has selected Newport as the site of this ground-breaking facility. We are looking forward to partnering with the company in their efforts to invest in and grow the labor force in Newport as well as increase the domestic production of battery cathode foil. We believe that Arkansas is the perfect fit for what the future has in store for Gränges.”
Jon Chadwell, Director of Economic Development, said: “Gränges and the Newport Economic Development Commission have forged a great working relationship that benefits the community and the company. Newport is blessed with great corporate citizens like Gränges, and we are excited to work with them to produce this product that is vital for the future of the automotive industry.”
Gränges expects to start battery cathode foil production at the expanded facility in the first quarter of 2024.
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