German ae group to establish North American headquarters in Georgia, create 300 jobs.

A German diecasting firm plans to advance its capabilities in North America and new facility.

As part of a $15 million initial investment are group ag, Bebra, Germany, will establish its first U.S. manufacturing operation--a 200,000-sq.-ft. plant in LaGrange, Ga.--which will be the firm's North American headquarters. The site was chosen after several other U.S. locations were considered.

The new ae facility will include an aluminum diecasting line and a machining line and is expected to bring a total of 300 new jobs. The firm, which diecasts parts for multiple industries, including automotive and aerospace, has studied the Southeast market and anticipates growth to $45 million in sales within a few years after startup. Construction is slated to begin in August with operations starting in early 2006.

"We are very impressed with Georgia's favorable business environment and project management experience as well as the Dept. of Economic Development's ability to fast-track this project," said Rupert Frech a representative of the ae group board of directors. "The high quality of worker skills we found here, together with the Quick Start training program, really confirmed our feeling that Georgia offers by far the best opportunities for our company's future growth."

"We're excited about this opportunity to expand international investment here in LaGrange and Troup County," said Bobby Carmichael, chairman of the Development Authority of LaGrange. "We found ae group very compatible to work with, and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship between the company and the community."