AVON – An automotive parts and systems manufacturer is coming to Avon. Piston Automotive designs, engineers, assembles and manufactures a wide variety of automotive parts and systems. The company was founded in 1995 by industry magnate and former NBA champion Vinnie Johnson. It is one of the largest private, minority-owned automotive suppliers in North America.
The company supplies powertrain systems, front-end cooling systems, chassis systems, battery packs, and interior systems to the automotive industry. The new operation in Avon will generate a total capital investment of almost $1.3 million and create 79 new jobs. The Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) approved the project for tax credit assistance during its Ohio Tax Credit Authority meeting today.
“The City of Avon provided us the perfect opportunity to fulfill our continued strategic growth plan in Ohio by leveraging the state’s strong workforce development initiatives and overall economic commitment to the automotive industry,” Piston Group chief executive officer Mamadou Diallo said. “We appreciate Ford Motor Company and the Ohio Department of Development for their support and approval of our continued expansion and partnership.”
The collaborative team included the City of Avon, Lorain County Commissioners, ONE Lorain County, Ohio Department of Transportation Jobs & Commerce, ODOD, JobsOhio, and Team NEO. The groups worked with leadership to bring this exciting expansion to Lorain County versus other states under consideration.
“ONE Lorain County is excited that Piston Automotive chose Lorain County as their new home,” ONE Lorain County director Lisa Hutson said. “The automotive industry continues to serve as the backbone of our manufacturing sector, and we look forward to partnering with Piston to find the talent and other resources required to support their growth.”
City of Avon Mayor Bryan K. Jensen commented on the partnership, “The announcement of Piston Automotive coming to Avon is a testament to Team NEO and JobsOhio and their commitment to help build businesses in Northeast Ohio. Through their dedication and support of local communities and the desire to help these communities grow with thoughtful developments that bring jobs and investment to Northeast Ohio, this project would have not made it this day. We want to welcome Piston Automotive to the City of Avon and look forward to working together to build a stronger future for the city, county, and region alike.”
Team NEO is a private, nonprofit economic development organization that ignites economic vibrancy, fosters sustainable growth, and champions equitable prosperity. As a designated JobsOhio Network Partner, the group collaborates across all 14 counties in the Northeast Ohio Region to create strategies to attract and retain companies, drive innovation, cultivate a skilled workforce, advance market-ready sites, and promote and engage the region
“The Northeast Ohio Region has a rich legacy in the automotive industry,” added Team NEO Chief Executive Officer Bill Koehler. “With a foundation of more than 24,000 workers supporting the automotive industry in our region, we’re sure Piston Automotive will find the talent, education programs, innovation cluster groups, and other resources to be successful in Lorain County for years to come.”
Piston Group employs nearly 10,000 people at more than 20 locations across North America.Last year, the firm posted revenues of$3.2 billion.
