South African company to build power electronics production facility
The South African based manufacturer Radél is announcing a new, state-of-the-art facility to build power electronic assemblies. Radél has selected a site on Mercantile Drive in Winston-Salem for its US operations. The project is expected to generate $9 million in capital investment and 50 jobs over five years.
“As the next stage of our company’s growth, we were eager to establish a presence on the US east coast,” says Francois Rademeyer, Managing Director of Radél. “After considering multiple locations we are excited to land in Forsyth County. We are impressed with the talent pipeline and the meaningful effort to focus on the advanced manufacturing sector here. The location is ideal for enhancing connections with our clients in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.”
Radél distributes and manufactures a wide range of products, with a particular focus on serving the vehicle industry like heavy-duty commercial vehicles, locomotives, defense vehicles, mining vehicles, and electrical vehicles. The company is based in Johannesburg, South Africa with close to 500 employees.
The company’s diversification includes the production of advanced power electronic regulators and converters specifically designed for the high demands of the heavy-duty commercial and defense vehicle industry. These products will be built in Winston-Salem.
“We are excited to continue the momentum of our advanced manufacturing sector growth and continue proving that we are an ideal East Coast landing spot for companies from all around the world,” says Mark Owens, President and CEO of Greater Winston-Salem, Inc. “Every company has unique needs and we are proud that we are able to deliver such a wide range of sites to the market to suit a variety of needs. With this project, we are able to find a new use for an existing property with a redevelopment that will generate jobs in a previously underutilized site.”
Radél plans to develop a workforce of 50 new jobs by 2029 with an average wage of $65,294. In addition to potential incentives from the City of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County, the company is also working with the State of North Carolina on incentive opportunities.
“Our community’s strategy is proving successful for moving projects over the finish line,” says Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines. “Our economic and workforce partners are working together to prove to interested companies the benefits of locating here.”
“We are pleased to welcome Radél into our robust manufacturing sector. The sector’s growth continues to generate employment opportunities with above-average wages that benefits our workforce. We are excited to bring new potential to an existing site in Forsyth County with this project,” says Don Martin, Chair of the Forsyth County Commissioners.