A surge of advanced manufacturing projects is creating thousands of jobs, revitalizing key sites, and reinforcing Illinois’ position as a top place for growth
In a matter of weeks, Illinois has secured a wave of major manufacturing investments—delivering thousands of high-quality jobs and reinforcing the state’s leadership in high-growth industries. From workforce connections to site selection, Illinois EDC is proud to have helped bring these transformative projects across the finish line.
The stream of businesses expanding in Illinois includes:
- AbbVie (Feb. 23)
- DMG MORI (Feb. 24)
- CSL (March 9)
- Hyundai Translead (March 16)
- Mars Snacking (March 25)
“Recent commitments from Hyundai Translead, CSL, DMG MORI, AbbVie, and Mars are powerful validation of our state’s competitive edge, world-class talent, and strong communities,” said Illinois EDC President and CEO Christy George. “These projects didn’t happen by chance; they reflect years of strategic collaboration and sustained investment from Team Illinois to help companies scale quickly and confidently.”
Illinois’ manufacturing industry creates $137.2 billion in economic output—equivalent to about 12.5% of the state’s GDP.
“There’s no better state than Illinois to capitalize on the resurgence of American manufacturing,” said David Boulay Ph.D., IMEC president and Illinois EDC board member. “These investments send a clear message: Illinois has the talent, infrastructure, supply chains, and tools to attract—and keep—the best in the world.”
As detailed in a Chicago Tribune editorial on the Hyundai Translead “big win,” the company choosing Illinois based on factors like its geography and infrastructure is a “vote of confidence” in the state and in Governor JB Pritzker’s record in uplifting the Illinois economy.
“Manufacturing is central to Illinois’ economy, employing more than 650,000 workers and contributing the single largest share of any industry to our state’s GDP,” said Mark Denzler, president and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and Illinois EDC board member. “More than that – manufacturing makes the world a better place to live every single day. From CSL’s and Abbvie’s life-saving therapies to DMG MORI’s precision components used in everything from surgical tools to satellites, or consumer products made by Mars and Ferrero, Illinois manufacturers make a global impact. When manufacturing wins in Illinois, the world benefits.”
Photo courtesy of Hyundai Translead.
Hyundai Translead to Revive Shuttered Plants with New Manufacturing Facilities
Hyundai Translead announced it will establish new trailer manufacturing facilities in Will County, investing $450 million, creating ~2500 new full-time jobs, and breathing life into former Caterpillar and Lion Electric sites.
“Our expansion to Illinois represents years of planning and a shared vision for long-term growth,” said Sean Kenney, CEO of Hyundai Translead. “This investment reflects our confidence and commitment to building products, workforce development, and partnerships that endure. We’re proud to work alongside state and local leaders to create meaningful economic opportunities while expanding our manufacturing footprint that serves our customers and communities.”
Photo courtesy of CSL.
CSL to Establish $1.5 Billion Facility in Kankakee County
Australian biotech leader CSL announced it will invest $1.5 billion in a new manufacturing facility at its Kankakee County campus, creating 300 jobs and retaining 1200+. Supported by an EDGE agreement, the facility will produce immunoglobulin therapies and is expected to supply 100% of its U.S. demand.
“As the need for plasma-derived therapies continues to grow in the U.S. and globally, expanding our Kankakee site further strengthens this key hub in our supply network. We thank our partners in government and our local community for supporting our mission to serve those who require these essential medicines,” said Gordon Naylor, interim CEO and managing director at CSL.
Photo courtesy of Governor Pritzker’s office.
DMG MORI to Invest in a Manufacturing and R&D Center
DMG MORI will invest more than $40.5 million to establish a new advanced manufacturing and R&D facility in the Chicagoland area and create 74 new full-time jobs. This new facility will serve as the center for the company’s North American R&D operations and will drive key strategic initiatives, including a dedicated workforce development program with City Colleges of Chicago.
“This facility will expand our North American R&D capacity, advance additive manufacturing and automation technologies, and power production of dual-use and defense applications. We are proud to deepen our roots in Illinois and partner with the state’s leaders to strengthen America’s industrial competitiveness,” said James Nudo, chairman of DMG MORI Federal Services, Inc.
Rendering courtesy of AbbVie.
AbbVie to Build Two Manufacturing Plants
AbbVie is investing $380 million to build two new active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturing facilities at its North Chicago campus, creating 300 jobs and further reinforcing its commitment to Illinois. Over the past six months, AbbVie has announced plans to invest $575 million in North Chicago, including a previously announced $195 million investment to construct a new chemical synthesis API manufacturing facility and add 50 full-time jobs.
“By strengthening AbbVie’s U.S. manufacturing capabilities, we are well-positioned to support our investment in innovation and enhance our ability to deliver next-generation medicines to patients,” said AbbVie Chairman and CEO Robert A. Michael.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.
Mars Snacking to Expand Chicago Global Headquarters
Capping off this incredible burst of wins, Mars Snacking announced it is expanding its global headquarters in Chicago. Bolstered by an EDGE agreement, Mars Snacking will invest $100 million and create 600 new jobs.
“The Chicagoland area offers the best of all worlds for Mars Snacking – a vibrant urban environment, strong communities and access to world-class talent. We are proud to deepen our roots here, advance the Mars Snacking business, and continue our long-standing commitment to community engagement and responsible business,” said Andrew Clarke, global president of Mars Snacking.
Stay up-to-date on Illinois business attraction wins by following Illinois EDC on LinkedIn.
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