Auto supplier breaks ground on $430 million manufacturing facility in Gadsden

The landscape of Gadsden’s industrial future is officially shifting. Minth Group, a global leader in automotive supply, broke ground this Monday on a massive $430 million manufacturing facility. The project is set to become a major economic engine for the area, with projections indicating the creation of 1,300 new jobs.

A Historic Transformation

This development marks a significant transformation for the region. The plant is being built on the former site of Republic Steel and Gulf States Steel, a 400-acre tract that is seeing new life after the company announced its plans back in March.

Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford championed the project as a vital "step into the future" for the community. "We’re continuing to raise the quality of life around the city with riverfront development and projects like the Gadsden Athletic Center, and Minth is a cornerstone for jobs and industry," Ford said.

Building a Flagship Location

As Minth Group’s largest campus globally, the facility will serve as a centerpiece for the company's U.S. expansion. Greer Building Contractors of Gadsden has been tapped to lead the construction, with site work scheduled to commence in the coming weeks. Production at the new plant is currently slated to begin in 2027.

According to David Hooks, CEO of the Gadsden-Etowah Industrial Development Authority, the impact of this investment will be felt far beyond city limits, driving economic growth across Etowah County and the entire Northeast Alabama region.

Driving the Automotive Sector

The Gadsden site will specialize in manufacturing high-quality aluminum and plastic components destined for major automakers, including Hyundai in Montgomery and Kia in West Point, Georgia.

Hiring efforts are expected to ramp up next year, starting with an initial wave of 700 positions. The roles are expected to offer an average annual wage of $49,000. For Minth Group, the location represents more than just logistics—it is a new home. "Gadsden is now part of the Minth family, and we couldn’t be more excited to make this a flagship location for our growth in the United States," said Minth Group CEO Esther Chin.