Wieland, a cornerstone of the East Alton community for over a century and a leading global supplier of high-quality copper and copper alloy solutions, is excited to break ground on a significant modernization project. This initiative expands the facility's capabilities, enhances operational efficiency, and delivers even higher quality and reliability standards. The $500 million project underscores Wieland's dedication to technological advancement and its valued North American customer base while preserving its legacy as an essential employer in the area.

"This investment positions Wieland as the undisputed leader in North American rolled products and underscores our commitment to the revitalization of American manufacturing," said Dr. Erwin Mayr, CEO of the Wieland Group.

The plans include adding a state-of-the-art hot rolling mill that will enable Wieland to increase and improve the production of essential copper and copper alloy components. These components are crucial for domestic manufacturers covering a broad variety of industries such as automotive, defense, and energy infrastructure. These enhancements will expand Wieland's future capacity and strengthen its position as a reliable, sustainable, and high-quality domestic supplier to key U.S. manufacturing industries and customers.

“Wieland has become an integral part of the East Alton community, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate their further investments in Illinois,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This more efficient and modern facility will be a beacon of the power of private-public partnership, innovation, and understanding of the needs of the changing 21^st century economy.”

Greg Keown, president of Wieland’s Business Unit Rolling & Recycling, expressed his gratitude to Governor Pritzker, Deputy Governor Andy Manar, Senator Dick Durbin, Senator Tammy Duckworth, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski, the team at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Mayor Darren Carlton, and Madison County. Their tireless efforts helped bring this project to fruition. Likewise, local and state leaders and business development officials have praised the move as a testament to Wieland's long-standing role in promoting economic growth and its commitment to sustainable manufacturing

Modernization efforts have begun and are expected to be completed by mid-2028.