Denmark-based
Caljan Inc. plans to bring some manufacturing operations currently performed overseas to Menomonee Falls.
Caljan, which makes conveyors and automated labeling products for the logistics industry, recently acquired the 105,500-square-foot industrial building at W140 N9000 Lilly Road.
Bob Formolo, Caljan director of sales and operations, said the company will use the facility to manufacture telescopic conveyors and automated labeling products. The products are currently being made overseas, he said, but declined to provide specifics.
Caljan will relocate to the building from its 9,400-square-foot office in Mequon. Formolo said the move-in will take place by this August.
The company now has 17 employees in sales, service and operation roles in the area. It will be adding more, but Formolo declined to name how many exactly. He said that information will be released in June.
The move has been in the works for years, Formolo said. Even so, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies the company's thinking. He said that by relocating these operations, the company reduces the risk of disruption due to things like pandemics or embargoes.
Indeed, the COVID-19 outbreak has led industry experts to predict
supply chains will repatriate so companies would be better insulated from such events.
Formolo added the company's products play a role in bringing packages to homes and vital supplies like face masks to front-line workers.
"Especially where we are at right now with COVID-19, it's important to see we are continuing with our plan of expanding and bringing jobs to our area. I think that's a benefit," he said.
Caljan purchased the Lilly Road building for roughly $5.38 million, according to state records. It is assessed at $3.95 million, according to county records.
The seller is Bamco Investments LLP, which is registered to Tim Burton, chairman of the board and former president of
Burton & Mayer.
On its website, Burton & Mayer still lists the Lilly Road facility as its address. The company could not immediately be reached for comment.
Caljan lists locations in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and South America, in addition to its Mequon office.
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