Behnke Enterprises would invest $4.38 million and add 34 high-quality jobs
Behnke Enterprises, one of the industry’s leading trailer manufacturers with dealers across the U.S. and Canada, is seeking to increase capacity and jobs at the company’s Farley-based location. Established in 1987, Behnke Enterprises designs and manufactures heavy-duty trailers for the agricultural, construction, heavy haul, utility/telecom, and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) markets.
Behnke Enterprises is planning and completing due diligence for this project that would invest $4,385,000 and add 34 high-quality jobs in the Farley Industrial Park. The proposed expansion is contingent upon application approvals and assistance from governmental entities, including the City of Farley and the Iowa Economic Development Authority.
This would also be the second expansion in as many years. In 2020, despite a global pandemic, Behnke Enterprises added more than 100,000 square feet of space to its Farley facilities, which was completed in October 2021. During the 2020-2021 expansion, the company invested a significant amount of capital for enhanced capabilities in their facility; including a new state-of-the art powder coating system, multiple robotic welding cells, six welding/fabrication bays, eight finish assembly bays, and new stand-alone shipping facility.
Greater Dubuque Development’s Vice President of Business Services, Jason White, said that his organization has long had the privilege of working with the Behnke’s on previous growth plans and expansions. “Existing employers in the Greater Dubuque area, like Behnke Enterprises, continue to provide many quality job opportunities for the regional economy. Behnke has expanded several times in Farley, demonstrating that companies, and the people they employ, can be great here.”
One of Behnke Enterprises’ owners, Chad Behnke, noted that the proposed expansion will allow the company to meet market demands, reduce lead times, and expand the dealer network. “We are thankful that community and regional partners have been there for us as we continue to grow. As a family-owned and operated business, we are excited to once again have the opportunity to expand in Farley and welcome new team members to our staff.”