U.S. - Stevens Industries, Inc., manufacturer and designer of laminated wood products based in Teutopolis, IL, is expanding locally. The company announced the intent to purchase a rail-served facility of 200,000 square feet in neighboring Effingham.

The expansion secures Stevens’ status as the largest commercial casework manufacturer in North America, as well as increasing laminated panel capacity by 40-percent.

Over the past five years, the 100-percent employee-owned company has grown organically as well as through acquisitions. Through these manufacturing opportunities, Stevens grew the employment base at its’ Teutopolis, headquarters. Stevens currently operates out of approximately 450,000 square feet making this addition a significant opportunity for business growth. The new building in Effingham will house an additional laminating press, as well as assembly lines for both assembled and ready-to-assemble cabinetry.

“We are at the point in our growth that additional space is required. The growth of our company has been tremendous,” explained Todd Wegman, President of Stevens Industries. “Our employee owners have developed, produced and delivered products to a wide-ranging group of customers who are continuing to want more. This expansion will allow us to hit our growth targets for the upcoming years. It offers an opportunity to grow in all sectors of our business, from our designer thermo-fused laminate panels, to our furniture, millwork, casework and countertop divisions.”

“The value of the rail facility was a major factor in our decision. The facility and its’ proximity to our headquarters was good, however, the ability to unload and load from the rail, was a key differentiator,” Wegman added. “We are excited to continue to growing and investing here in the Teutopolis and Effingham area. We anticipate moving machinery and materials into the space in early 2018.”