Construction is progressing on schedule for ADR Axles’ 22, groundbreaking of its new $14.3 million North American headquarters and production facility in Perry, Iowa. The 54,000-square-foot facility, located in the Perry Industrial Park, is expected to be completed in late or early .
The Italian-based manufacturer, which began U.S. Operations approximately eight years ago, specializes in axles, braking systems, and suspensions for agricultural and industrial machinery. Key customers include John Deere, Massey Ferguson, Case New Holland, Kinze Manufacturing, and Bazooka Farmstar, highlighting the company’s position within the agricultural equipment supply chain.
The decision to locate the facility in Perry was driven by several factors, according to Chiara Radizzani, vice president of ADR Group. Radizzani emphasized the importance of a “shovel-ready” site with existing utilities to expedite construction. The Perry Industrial Park offered a certified site, a designation awarded through the Iowa Certified Site Program, which prioritizes accessibility to transportation and utility infrastructure. This program, established in , was a direct response to a previous lost economic development opportunity due to land availability issues in Iowa.
The project represents a significant investment in the Perry community and Dallas County, with expectations of creating approximately 50 jobs. Notably, 12 of these positions will offer compensation of at least $31.10 per hour, indicating a commitment to higher-wage employment within the region. The economic impact extends beyond direct employment, encompassing benefits for local businesses and increased tax revenue.
The development has garnered support from a broad coalition of stakeholders, including the city of Perry, Dallas County Development Alliance, Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), Perry Chamber of Commerce, and the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Secretary Mike Naig also congratulated the stakeholders involved, underscoring the project’s importance to the state’s agricultural sector.
ADR Axles’ roots trace back 70 years to its founding by Radizzani’s grandfather in Milan, Italy. The company’s expansion into the U.S. Market reflects a broader trend of foreign direct investment in the American manufacturing sector, particularly in regions with strong agricultural ties. The choice of Perry, Iowa, aligns with a strategy of proximity to key customers and a focus on efficient logistics.
Dean Snyder Construction is serving as the general contractor for the project. The company’s involvement suggests a focus on local expertise and a commitment to utilizing regional construction resources. The investment in a new, purpose-built facility signals ADR Axles’ long-term commitment to the North American market and its intention to expand its manufacturing capabilities within the United States.
The project’s success hinges on the continued availability of skilled labor and a supportive business environment. Iowa’s efforts to develop certified sites and streamline the permitting process are crucial in attracting manufacturers like ADR Axles. The company’s emphasis on a quick turnaround time for construction highlights the importance of efficient infrastructure and regulatory frameworks in securing foreign investment.
While the initial investment is $14.3 million, the long-term economic benefits to Perry and the surrounding region are expected to be substantial. The creation of skilled manufacturing jobs, increased economic activity, and the attraction of further investment are all potential outcomes of this project. The facility’s location within the Perry Industrial Park positions it for future growth and expansion, potentially solidifying ADR Axles’ role as a key supplier to the agricultural and industrial equipment industries.
