Boston Whaler formally has announced a major facilities expansion project underway at its Edgewater, Fla., headquarters. With an under-roof addition of more than 58,000 total square feet, the expansion will serve to significantly increase Boston Whaler’s manufacturing capabilities and expand capacity at a time when it is enjoying strong growth, the company says. The project also will result in the addition of at least 46 full-time jobs.
“This expansion gives us the capability to continue to grow our portfolio,” says Boston Whaler President Huw Bower, in a company news release. “We are proud to have introduced more than a dozen new boats in less than three years’ time, and look forward to continuing this trajectory of innovation. Expanding the capacity of our facility underscores our commitment to continued growth and enables us to further expand our product line to meet the solid demand for our boats.
“Boston Whaler is committed to the Edgewater community, and we are thrilled to formally announce this expansion in terms of both this investment and the opportunities it creates,” Bower continues. “We’re very pleased to have the support of Volusia County Economic Development Board in this endeavor.”
The Volusia County Council’s decision to provide local financial support for Boston Whaler’s participation in Florida’s Qualified Target Industry tax refund program was an important component of the company’s decision to expand its Edgewater facility. The QTI program is designed to encourage higher-skill job creation and foster economic growth.
“The Boston Whaler brand is internationally known for quality, and this decision to expand their manufacturing facility will provide residents with quality job opportunities,” says Rob Ehrhardt, Volusia County economic development manager.
“The creation of additional jobs helps the entire community,” says Edgewater City Manager Tracey Barlow. “Boston Whaler has been a very strong partner for our community, and we look forward to a long and prosperous future with them.”
“By staking a continued presence in the community and reaffirming our dedication to positive growth, Boston Whaler has again proven our status as a leader in the marine industry,” Bower says. “We’re committed to the development and production of boats that are truly cutting-edge and that carry on the ‘Unsinkable Legend.’”
