Summit Truck Bodies announced the groundbreaking of a new state-of-the-art facility in Wathena, Kansas. The $50 million project began construction recently and is expected to be completed in 20 months. Once fully operational it will double production output.
The new facility spans 220,000 square feet, with 200,000 square feet for manufacturing and 20,000 square feet for offices and a showroom. It’s located adjacent to the existing production and warehouse facility and will focus on service body production and the final assembly of service trucks.
The current 132,000-square-foot facility will transform to streamline capabilities in key areas. The revamped space will shift focus to manufacturing lube trucks, drawer systems, cranes, body refurbishments, and parts sales.
“In deciding to build this new facility, we considered our current lead times, customer expectations, and the increase in our parts sales and service,” says Chris Walter, plant manager, Summit Truck Bodies. “The most exciting aspect of this expansion is the integration of new technology and streamlined processes that will maximize our production efficiency. The advanced equipment will improve fabrication and paint speed, reduce physical strain on our workers and ensure consistent high quality. This expansion will significantly decrease lead times and enhance after-sales support, directly benefiting our customers.”
