Written on: November 21, 2022 by ICM
Rheem is investing more than $20 million in its Fort Smith, AR facility, the headquarters of its U.S. HVAC equipment manufacturing and air conditioning business unit. Rheem said the investment is a key element of its 10-year strategy: “INVEST to grow, INNOVATE to lead and DELIVER on commitments.”
“We are excited to expand our operations in Fort Smith,” said Andrew Welch, Director of Operations, Rheem Air Conditioning Division. “This expansion demonstrates our committed partnership with the state and rewards the Fort Smith community — enabling our continued growth and leadership.”
Founded in 1925, Rheem produces HVAC equipment, as well as water heaters, commercial and residential boilers, and commercial refrigeration solutions. Today, Rheem encompasses more than 40 brands worldwide, including Rheem, Ruud, SureComfort, Russell, Witt, Kramer, ColdZone and Friedrich. Rheem’s owner, Paloma, remains committed to investing in the business for future growth and expansion.
“We are excited to see Rheem grow and succeed in Fort Smith,” Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston said. “Rheem is creating both corporate and manufacturing jobs that spur economic development and raise the quality of life for employees and their families.”
As part of the investment, Rheem will hire 100 production and office personnel in addition to boosting production capacity and making facility and grounds improvements. Improvements will include a new Innovation Learning Center (ILC), which will allow training distributors and contractors to work with Rheem products and learn about product improvement. Other improvements will include a new entrance and traffic flow patterns to improve safety, access and congestion.
“Rheem continues to be a leader in Fort Smith and Arkansas,” said Tim Allen, President, Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce. “We are so pleased to work with them secure this investment into our community.”
