Strategic Expansion to Double Production Capacity and Boost the Local Economy
Summit Truck Bodies (STB) announced the groundbreaking of a new state-of-the-art facility in Wathena, Kansas. This strategic expansion aims to meet the rising demand for high-quality service trucks and expand production capabilities. The project, valued at approximately $50 million and managed by Reynolds Construction Management, began construction next to their Wathena, KS, facility on June 24. It is expected to be completed in 20 months and, once fully operational, will double production output.
Facility Highlights
The new facility will occupy 220,000 square feet, with 200,000 square feet designated for manufacturing and 20,000 square feet reserved for office space and a showroom. It will be located next to the existing production and warehouse facility and seamlessly connected to optimize workflow and efficiency. This expansion will concentrate on service body production and the final assembly of service trucks. The new production space will feature cutting-edge manufacturing technology, including automated fabrication, welding, and paint systems.
The current 132,000-square-foot facility will transform to streamline capabilities in key areas, focusing on manufacturing lube trucks, drawer systems, cranes, body refurbishments, and parts sales. These adjustments reflect our dedication to consistently enhancing and adapting to meet our customers’ evolving needs.
Maximizing Production Efficiency
Chris Walter, Summit Truck Bodies Plant Manager, commented, “In deciding to build this new facility, we considered our current lead times, customer expectations, and the increase in our parts sales and service. 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.”
Governor Laura Kelly Praises the Expansion
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly praised the expansion, stating, “Summit Truck Bodies’ expansion is proof that our dedicated workforce, quality of life, and central location draw businesses across various industries. Kansas will continue to partner with first-class companies like Summit Truck Bodies to ensure communities throughout the state have opportunities to prosper.”
Economic Impact and Job Creation
With the new facility, Summit Truck Bodies will hire 80 additional employees across various departments, including production, engineering, warehouse, and other support roles. “The new facility will positively impact the local community by increasing revenue and providing quality jobs,” added Walter. “We are excited to continue our partnerships with Hillyard Technical Center and Missouri Western State University to attract and develop local talent.”
Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland highlighted the broader economic impact, stating, “A concerted focus on strengthening our state’s advanced manufacturing sector not only is attracting companies from around the world but encouraging existing companies to expand operations right here in Kansas. Working with companies like Summit Truck Bodies is what will keep our state on the dominant trajectory of growth we’re experiencing.”
Mayor John Hontz expressed the city’s enthusiasm, saying, “On behalf of the City of Wathena, we are excited about Summit Truck Bodies’ investment and the expansion of their facility in our city. Summit has proven to be a great employer, providing valuable opportunities and benefits to our community. The Wathena City Council is pleased to be partners and stands ready to assist them in any way possible.”
The Doniphan County Economic Development assisted with the project, further emphasizing the collaboration and support from local and state organizations to ensure the success of this expansion.
Enhancing Sales and Customer Experience
Summit Truck Equipment (STE), a sister company of Summit Truck Bodies, focuses on selling custom service and lube trucks and equipment produced by Summit Truck Bodies. The recent expansion of Summit Truck Bodies’ manufacturing capabilities will significantly elevate STE’s capacity to meet market needs. “The expansion of Summit Truck Bodies will improve our responsiveness to market needs, shorten lead times, and improve customer experience,” reassured Daniel DeAces, National Sales Manager of Summit Truck Equipment. “This growth will allow us to hire more sales team members to cover open territories, expand our market reach, build stronger relationships, and gain deeper insights into our customers’ needs. With strategically located sales representatives across the U.S., we can connect with new clients and grow our customer base by leveraging brand recognition, trust, and factory support.” This expansion will enable the company to fill these gaps and better serve its customers nationwide.
Strengthening Our Partnership with Reynolds Construction Management
Reynolds Construction Management (RCM) is excited to announce the commencement of this new facility project for Summit Truck Bodies, a division of Transwest Inc. This marks the third major collaboration between RCM and Transwest, underscoring the strength of our ongoing partnership. RCM’s expertise in design-build and construction management services ensures the project will be completed to the highest standards of quality and efficiency. “We are thrilled to continue our successful relationship with Transwest Inc. and look forward to delivering another exceptional project,” said Paul Reynolds, co-founder of RCM. The new facility will bolster Summit Truck Bodies’ capacity to meet growing demand, showcasing RCM’s commitment to excellence and innovation in construction.
Looking Ahead
Summit Truck Bodies is committed to continuous improvement and innovation, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the industry. This new facility represents a significant milestone in our journey, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on our customers, employees, and the community. Stay tuned for more updates as we progress with this exciting project!
