Auto parts maker to invest $50M in Kentucky, thanks in part to Ford’s Louisville plants

An automotive supplier is investing nearly $50 million in two Kentucky operations in part because of more business from Ford’s Louisville area manufacturing plants.

Livonia, Mich.-based Tower International will invest about $20 million in its Shepherdsville facility to increase its size to 312,000 square feet, up from 219,000.

Derek Fiebig, executive director for investor and external relations, told Insider Thursday that the company planned to hire 35 employees between June and September, primarily to produce floor assemblies. Customers for the product include Ford Motor Co.’s Louisville Assembly Plant, which uses the assemblies in the Escape.

Ford accounts for about a third of the company’s total revenue, according to its most recent annual report. Tower International also makes the frame assembly and other components for the Super Duty, made at Kentucky Truck Plant.

Tower International has about 8,000 employees at 23 production facilities and generates about $2 billion in annual revenue. The company produces components such as floor pan assemblies and pickup truck frames for most global auto brands, including Audi, Honda and Ford.

Tower International’s Shepherdsville plant opened in 2014 and employs about 100. Average hourly wages for the new employees will be $32, including benefits, according to filings with the state.

Read more: Auto parts maker to invest $50M in Kentucky, thanks in part to Ford’s Louisville plants