Weldcote Metals Inc., a division of Zika Group, is opening a new, 49,000-square-foot manufacturing and distribution facility, located in Niles, Illinois.
The state-of-the-art, modern building, which was completed in August, features racking that is six pallets high and a 32-foot clear ceiling height, as well as eight loading docks, one drive-in door and parking for 54 cars. The spec building was designed by Harris Architects and built by Krusinski Construction. The new facility will incorporate manufacturing, production, distribution, training and sales and marketing.
“Having the room to expand and add additional manufacturing capabilities is a critical component for our success as we position Weldcote for continued future growth that will direct the company to the forefront of the industrial tool industry,” said Joe O’Mera, CEO, Weldcote Metals.
The new facility is part of a strategic effort to increase Weldcote sales and visibility in the United States and position the brand as a one-stop-shop solution for the industrial tool industry.
“After putting a strong, experienced and knowledgeable sales team in place, it was important to secure a physical space that would allow for growth as we develop the Weldcote brand in the industrial market and deliver on our promise to be a high-end, ‘one-stop shop’ solution for our customers,” added O’Mera.
Weldcote Metals was founded by Bill Roland, founding CEO and current president, and John Pandorf, co-founder and CFO, in 2006. Earlier this year, the company announced Zika Group and O’Mera as additional ownership, along with O’Mera being named CEO.
About Zika Group
Zika Group Ltd. is a global ‘one-stop shop’ for high quality welding consumables and equipment. Zika manufactures its products according to the highest technical and internationally recognized standards and operates through two manufacturing sites in Israel and Europe.
Zika’s highly skilled and passionate engineers, together with state-of-the-art metallurgical and chemical laboratories, are available to support customers and provide them with reliable and technologically superior products. Zika’s product lines adjust to meet evolving market requirements, such as its new patent pending low manganese electrodes line.
About Weldcote Metals
Headquartered in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, Weldcote Metals is a manufacturer and wholesaler of high-quality welding supplies distributed through welding distributors in the U.S. and various parts of the world. Weldcote’s product line consists of a wide range of production alloys for MIG, TIG, electrodes, brazing and welding accessories, including lenses, helmets, chemical aids and gloves. Weldcote has six locations throughout the U.S.