Thermoplastic composite specialist CPI Binani Inc. has launched a 50,000-square-foot addition in Winona to keep up with increased demand for its parts.
The extra space will provide room for more production, warehousing and research operations. CPI Binani has already added 20 employees, marketing director Eric Renteria said in an Aug. 24 telephone interview. The new space will provide elbow room for existing manufacturing while also putting in place the infrastructure for future expected processing expansions.
CPI Binani uses direct in-line compounding to produce long-fiber thermoplastics. The expansion will support production for new business in the packaging, pallets, recreational vehicle and watercraft industries, the company said.
The firm also is investing in systems that will make the new production 35 percent more energy efficient with increased insulation, while an enhanced ventilation system will create a more comfortable work environment, Renteria said.
Winona-based CPI had discussed the expansion since early 2011 and approved the work in July. The expansion is expected to be complete by Jan. 1. The company has seen about 100 percent growth in orders year-over-year, Renteria said, with even more work expected to come on line in the next year.