AUBURN, Ala.- Vulcaflex S.p.A., a manufacturer of synthetic leather used in the automotive industry, celebrated the groundbreaking of its full-scale manufacturing operation in Auburn Technology Park West on November 6.

“Today’s groundbreaking marks an important milestone for Vulcaflex and our long-term commitment to the North American market,” said Robert Bozzi, CEO of Vulcaflex. “Establishing a state-of-the-art production facility in Auburn will allow us to manufacture our product closer to our customers and better serve automotive manufacturers throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. We look forward to bringing together our renowned Italian design and innovation with American manufacturing as we continue to grow our company.”

Construction of the Auburn facility is slated for completion in late summer 2027, and upon full operation, the company will provide 130 job opportunities for the local and regional workforce. Positions will be advertised on WorkInAuburn.com and through the Alabama Industrial Development Training’s website, aidt.com.

“We are excited about the addition of Vulcaflex to our West Tech Park and to the new opportunities it will provide for workers in the area,” said Mayor Ron Anders. “Thank you to the Bozzi family, who selected Auburn as their North American home after much thought and collaboration. We welcome you to Auburn. We feel strongly that Vulcaflex is a great addition to the Auburn economy and look forward to seeing you succeed here.”

In June, the Italian manufacturer announced it had selected Auburn to open a full-scale manufacturing operation. Since then, the company has been working to prepare its site for construction. Vulcaflex announced it would open a $70 million operation in Auburn, after much collaboration between the company, City of Auburn, State of Alabama, Auburn University, and Southern Union State Community College, among others.

“Vulcaflex’s decision to establish its North American manufacturing operation in Auburn is another testament to Alabama’s ability to attract international companies and strengthen our automotive manufacturing industry,” said Alabama Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair. “We are proud to welcome the Bozzi family and Vulcaflex to Alabama and appreciate the collaboration among our state and local partners. We look forward to seeing Vulcaflex grow and succeed here.”