Precision metal fabricator will establish a new truck cab production line and create up to 37 high-wage jobs in Wayne County by 2029.
J.M. Hutton & Company, an Indiana-based precision metal fabrication manufacturer, plans to invest more than $6.25 million to expand its operations in Richmond, Indiana.
The Wayne County project will create up to 37 new jobs by the end of 2029. The positions are expected to pay more than 125% of the county’s average wage.
“Indiana’s position as a leader in advanced manufacturing continues to grow thanks to our pro-business environment and skilled workforce,” Indiana Gov. Mike Braun said. “J.M. Hutton’s decision to invest and create new jobs in Richmond signals its confidence in East Central Indiana’s robust manufacturing ecosystem and the region’s ability to power its success for years to come.”
The company will invest in its Richmond facilities, which encompass more than 250,000 square feet, to establish a new production line for truck cab manufacturing. The expansion is designed to position J.M. Hutton for continued growth within the commercial vehicle market.
The project will also increase production capacity across the company’s core services, including:
- Metal stamping
- Two-dimensional and three-dimensional laser cutting
- Welding
- Powder coating
The expansion represents J.M. Hutton’s first major investment following its transition to new ownership. Michigan-based National Manufacturing Group acquired the company earlier this year, expanding its metal fabrication and finishing capabilities and strengthening its vertical integration in operator cab and structural component manufacturing.
“J.M. Hutton has built an outstanding reputation for quality, precision and customer service,” said Rick Grise, president and CEO of J.M. Hutton & Company. “As the new ownership team, we are committed to building on that legacy by investing in our people, expanding our capabilities and creating new opportunities for growth.”
Grise said Richmond’s skilled workforce, supportive business environment and community partnerships made the city the right location for the company’s next phase of investment.
J.M. Hutton has operated in Richmond since 1845. The company began as a sawmill before transitioning into metal casket manufacturing and later expanding its fabrication services. It now supplies customers across the vocational truck, medical and food-service industries.
Based on the company’s job-creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation committed up to $300,000 in performance-based tax credits to National Stamping and Fabrication, doing business as J.M. Hutton & Company. The company may claim the incentives after the committed jobs are created.
The Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County Board of Directors also approved incentives for the project. The city of Richmond is considering an additional tax abatement to support the expansion.
