Waterloo is known for its innovative spirit, strong tech ecosystem and its welcoming business environment – a place where collaboration drives economic growth.
This sentiment was perfectly captured when PWO Canada, the first international subsidiary of German auto parts manufacturer PWO Group, announced a $9.6M investment in its Kitchener location this week. This move underscores the company’s confidence in the region while advancing our growing reputation in the manufacturing sector.
The multi-million investment will be supported by a $1.5M investment from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF) and will support the creation of a customized assembly line featuring cutting-edge robotics, vision systems, and II0T (industrial Internet of things).
With this local expansion, 27 new jobs will be created for skilled professionals in the community, including STEM-focused roles.
Left: The Honourable Victor Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade; Carlo Lazzarini, CEO of PWO Group; Andreas Haas, CEO of PWO Canada; and Berry Vrbanovic, Mayor of Kitchener.
Celebrating growth and sustainability
The funding was announced at PWO Canada’s Kitchener location on October 2, with special guests in attendance, including The Honourable Victor Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade; Berry Vrbanovic, Mayor of Kitchener; Regional Chair Karen Redman; and Andreas Haas, CEO of PWO Canada.
Carlo Lazzarini, CEO of PWO Group, was also in attendance, accompanied by the visiting WVIB Business Delegation coordinated by the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce.
Minister Fedeli praised PWO Canada’s growth in Kitchener over the last 26 years and was the first to congratulate the company on its $9.6M investment and SWODF boost. He commended the company on its ongoing commitment to sustainability and for “running such a tight ship” at its Kitchener facility.
Mayor Vrbanovic echoed this sentiment and highlighted the company’s long-standing commitment to the region’s manufacturing sector. He called the investment “a major vote of confidence” in the local team.
The event concluded with an exclusive tour of the plant, allowing attendees to get an up-close view of PWO Canada’s innovative automotive technology.
Special guests gather for a photo after touring PWO Canada’s manufacturing facilities.
About PWO
Founded in 1919 and headquartered in Oberkirch, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Progress-Werk Oberkirch AG (PWO) is a leader in automotive manufacturing.
With a 3000-person global workforce, the company specializes in advanced metal components and subsystems for lightweight automotive construction. Products range from housings for motors and electrical components to safety components for airbags.
Outside of Germany, PWO has facilities in the Czech Republic, Serbia, Mexico and China. PWO Canada, situated in Kitchener, began as an independent tool-and-die shop in 1968, and by 1999, became a wholly owned subsidiary of the PWO Group. Currently, PWO Canada employs around 300 individuals.
Inventing the future, together
Collaboration, innovation, and growth are what define Waterloo. PWO Canada’s recent announcement showcases what’s possible when forward-thinking businesses and a supportive region come together.
Waterloo EDC has played an active role in PWO Canada’s expansion journey, which dates back to 2018.
“I am very happy to celebrate PWO Canada’s continued success in Waterloo Region. This is a very forward-looking company that continues to grow thanks to a relentless pursuit of innovation.” Waterloo EDC President & CEO Tony LaMantia reflected on the announcement.
“They are a fantastic representation of our manufacturing community. Kudos to Andreas Haas and the whole PWO Canada team. I can’t wait to see what they do next.”
For more details, please read the press release here.
Thinking of expanding in Waterloo? We’re here to help. Contact the Waterloo EDC team today.