“We look forward to forging a strong and lasting partnership with Gerhardi and hope to see them grow in Montgomery as Alabama’s auto industry continues to expand its footprint across the state,” he said.

EVOLUTION

Gerhardi, founded in 1796, originally manufactured brass and copper buckles. Over the years, it expanded its activities to the production of tea and coffee sets. By 1952, it began to shift focus to production of automotive components.

Today the company is known for its innovation in developing and producing superior interior and exterior plastic automotive parts.

Using such technologies as injection molding, advanced electroplating and hot stamping, Gerhardi manufactures a variety of products including radiator grilles, handles and chrome trims for its clients worldwide, according to the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce.

“This is a company that has both a rich history and a solid reputation for being on the cutting edge of the future. Their investment in the River Region speaks volumes about what we have to offer,” said Elton N. Dean Sr., chairman of the Montgomery County Commission.

Mayor Todd Strange said it’s significant that Gerhardi could have picked any location for its first U.S. manufacturing location but selected Montgomery.

“This shows that we are not only excelling nationally, but we are also continuing to boost our global presence. Gerhardi has seen that great things happen when you do business in Montgomery.”

Gerhardi is headquartered in Lüdenscheid, Germany. It employs approximately 1,400 workers at four production plants throughout Germany with annual sales totaling approximately $200 million, according to the Montgomery Chamber.

“It is certainly exciting to know that we are part of an organization so firmly rooted in the future,” said Willie Durham, chairman of the Montgomery Chamber.