Overview of the new Sutphen Corporation facility

Sutphen Corporation, recognised as one of Americas’ foremost family-owned and operated fire apparatus manufacturer, has held a grand opening for its latest manufacturing facility in Urbana, Ohio.

Spanning 185,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art site integrates three former operations into a single, comprehensive manufacturing hub.

Located at 935 S. Edgewood Avenue, the new facility significantly enhances Sutphen’s manufacturing capacity within the Urbana community.

Impact and objectives of the new site

“This new facility increases our workforce, manufacturing efficiency, production capacity, and so much more,” stated Drew Sutphen, President of Sutphen Corporation.

He emphasised the investment’s role in continuing the company’s legacy, projecting it as a foundation for future generations of the Sutphen family to expand the business.

Since moving into the facility in late 2023, Sutphen has created over 25 new jobs, with further positions available as part of its expansion plans.

Community and economic contributions

Julie Sutphen Phelps, Vice President of Sutphen Corporation, highlighted the company’s long-standing relationship with the Urbana community, emphasizing the mutual growth and benefits derived from this partnership.

Rich Ebert, Director of the Champaign Economic Partnership, echoed this sentiment, expressing pride in hosting such a prestigious manufacturer in Urbana and anticipating further contributions to the local economy.

A commitment to innovation and growth

The Urbana site, covering 25 of the 55 acres acquired by Sutphen in 2021, showcases the company’s dedication to innovation and responsible growth.

By housing Sutphen’s extreme-duty custom chassis line, the corporate service and technical centre, and the Ohio custom pumper line, the facility is poised to meet the increasing demands of fire safety and emergency response equipment.

IFSJ Comment

The inauguration of Sutphen Corporation’s new manufacturing facility in Urbana, Ohio, represents a strategic advancement in the fire and safety industry, reflecting both a commitment to innovation and community engagement.

This facility underscores Sutphen’s dedication to enhancing its manufacturing capabilities and efficiency, highlighting its role in fostering job creation and economic development within the Urbana area.

By consolidating operations and focusing on expansion, Sutphen sets a precedent for future growth, emphasising the importance of building a sustainable business that can adapt and thrive through generations.

As the fire and safety sector continues to evolve, investments like these are crucial for advancing technology, improving response capabilities, and ensuring the wellbeing of communities across the nation.