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An expansion at Morristown -based OTICS’s US headquarters means an investment of more than $100 million and 70 jobs, according to state and local officials.

The expansion – which has been completed – is the result of an $147 million investment to expand its manufacturing operations in Morristown, Tennessee.

OTICS USA will create 70 new jobs through the expansion.

“Tennessee’s highly skilled workforce and unmatched business climate facilitate new growth and expansion for the companies that call Tennessee home. I thank OTICS USA for its commitment to job creation and look forward to the new opportunities that these 70 new jobs will bring to the Morristown community,” said Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee.

As a supplier for major automotive corporations, OTICS USA will be able to accommodate new business growth and increased fuel pipe production capabilities, which will be made possible through the construction of an additional 55,000 square feet of space at OTICS USA’s facility on Interstate View Drive.

“For more than 20 years, OTICS has been a valued member of the Morristown and Hamblen County industrial family,” said R. Jack Fishman, chair of the Morristown Industrial Board. “We appreciate their continued belief and support of this community and are excited for what this expansion means to our continued partnership moving forward.”

OTICS USA, Inc. was founded in 2001 as a subsidiary to OTICS Corporation, which is based in Japan. Headquartered in Morristown, OTICS USA manufactures parts for major automotive corporations.

“We are very proud of the fourth expansion of our Morristown facility and excited about our new projects. Our continued growth and expansion are a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our team members,” said Charlotte Jennelle, General Manager/Division Head OTICS USA, Inc.

With the additional 70 new jobs in Hamblen County, OTICS USA will employ nearly 450 people across its two East Tennessee locations in Kodak and Morristown.

“OTICS USA’s decision to expand its Morristown operation is a vote of confidence for our business climate and our workforce. I appreciate the company’s willingness to invest more in our community and its people. I’m confident that the expansion will pay dividends for the company,” said Hamblen County Mayor Bill Brittain

Since 2018, TNECD has supported nearly 10 economic development projects in Hamblen County, resulting in approximately 1,200 job commitments and nearly $248 million in capital investment.

“OTICS USA’s expansion in Morristown is a testament to our state’s rich history in the automotive industry, and we stand ready to support this global brand so that it continues to succeed in the Volunteer State. Congratulations to Morristown and Hamblen County on landing another great manufacturing win,” said TNECD Commissioner Stuart McWhorter

Morristown Mayor Gary Chesney said the announcement is wonderful news.

“OTICS USA has been a valuable member of our industrial community since its arrival. The company’s decision to invest more than $100 million and create 70 new jobs is an excellent testimony to OTICS USA’s success and confidence in its future in Morristown,” Chesney said.

TVA officials offered thier congratulations on the announcement.

“It’s always an exciting day when we can celebrate a company’s continued commitment to growth in the region. We are proud to partner with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and the Morristown Area Chamber of Commerce to support companies, like OTICS USA and look forward to its continued success in the Valley,” said John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of Economic Development

Hamblen County’s State Sen. Steve Southerland cited the area’s workforce and business climate as attractive to industries like OTICS.

“I am grateful to OTICS USA for its decision to create 70 new jobs, and I congratulate them on their success. I also want to thank the state and local officials who helped facilitate this expansion,” said Southerland.

State Rep. Jeremy Faison agreed.

“This expansion by OTICS USA is incredibly important for Morristown. Not only will this substantial investment create 70 new jobs in our area, but it will also further strengthen the local economy. I congratulate OTICS USA on this exciting announcement and look forward to the company’s continued success in Hamblen County,” Faison said.