Thyssenkrupp Materials Services has opened its new steel service centre (SSC) in Sinton, Texas, in which the company invested €30 million ($32m).
The new location will be part of US unit thyssenkrupp Materials NA. It will serve markets in the region and neighbouring Mexico, which previously had to contend with long delivery times due to their geographic location.
The company underlines the site’s strategic role as an addition to tk Materials’ three existing steel service centres in Richburg, South Carolina; Woodstock, Alabama; and Detroit, Michigan. The move continues the German-based group’s expansion in North America, where it has invested more than €100m in the past two years, Kallanish hears.
The SSC is located on the premises of steelmaker Steel Dynamics, Inc. “The logistically favourable location – including direct rail and port access – in Sinton allows us to bridge the gap to markets that were dependent on distant suppliers,” says Steve McGee, chief operating officer of thyssenkrupp Steel Services.
In addition to a building of around 15,000m², the investment also includes new slitting and cut-to-length lines. The mill has the capability to produce advanced high-strength steel and other grades that are rarely found in the US, according to the company. The centre uses wind and solar power as well as electric forklifts. The site spans nearly 33 acres and has adequate space for several future expansions. The new plant commenced operations in April, with 15 employees.
Christian Koehl Germany
