Components Plant in New Britain, PA
EIGHTY FOUR, PA. (Jan. 27, 2020) – Taking advantage of the increasing demand for engineered and manufactured wood products throughout the Philadelphia, Delaware and New Jersey areas, 84 Lumber today announced its newest dedicated components plant in New Britain, PA.
The new plant, which will primarily manufacture wall panels, roof trusses and floor trusses, was converted from an existing 84 Lumber store that originally opened in 1970. The new components plant is fully automated, outfitted with the latest design software, computerized saws and laser projection equipment. The facility opened this month and expects to hire 20 employees by spring, with plans to grow to 45 employees.
“Our strategic plan to convert our existing facility into a components plant is right in sync with our overall goal of becoming the preferred supplier for everything a builder needs in this region – and all the regions we serve,” said Steve Benko, Mid-Atlantic divisional components area manager at 84 Lumber. “We see the growth opportunity of a components plant in New Britain, so we’re extremely excited to open our doors and expand our relationships with area builders.”
Components manufacturing has become an increasingly important part of 84 Lumber’s business, as the company has invested substantially in opening new facilities and upgrading equipment at existing locations over the past five years. With the New Britain opening, 84 Lumber now has nine facilities across the country, with plans to open Richmond, VA and Mansfield, OH later in 2020. As the company continues to increase its presence westward, it also expects to create components facilities within a number of the planned new 84 Lumber stores.
“Expanding our components offerings is such a natural fit for us,” said Ken Kucera, vice president of installed sales and manufacturing at 84 Lumber. “Now, with our installed sales program working hand-in-hand with components, we can help all builders construct more houses, reduce cycle time and ultimately be better business owners.”
The New Britain plant is located approximately 30 miles north of Philadelphia and 30 miles west of Trenton, NJ.