CHICAGO — Advanced Technology Products is expanding its U.S. plant to accommodate increased inventory needs and future business growth. The custom maker and distributor of polyurethane hose and tubing is adding 4,000 square feet to its 10,000-square-foot production site in Millford Center, Ohio, said James McCoy, president of the 10-year-old firm.
The expansion initially will be used for warehousing at the facility, which is "filled to the brim" with product, McCoy said at the National Design Engineering Show & Conference, held March 13-16 in Chicago. In the future, the space also may be used to house equipment additions.
With average sales growth of 20 percent per year, McCoy said ATP's 2000 sales already are 36 percent ahead of the same period in 1999. The firm expects year-end sales to be about 22 percent better than last year's.
Accommodating that demand with heavy manufacturing, ATP has stockpiled its inventory for immediate shipping from the site, its only U.S. distribution point. The firm also is installing a shipping dock, said marketing representative Rachel Williamson.
The cost of the expansion was not disclosed.
"We are looking at bringing in additional extruding equipment in the next year," said Duane Campbell, ATP vice president of sales and marketing.
The firm plans to buy one or two more extruders to boost production later this year, Campbell said, without mentioning a percentage increase.
The majority owner of ATP is Japanese hose and tube maker Chiyoda Engineering Co. Ltd.