North America’s largest roofing manufacturer to open new facility in Moberly, create 125 new jobs

• March 18, 2014

North America’s largest roofing manufacturer plans to build a new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Moberly, Gov. Jay Nixon announced today. GAF Roofing will invest nearly $149 million to develop a 147-acre site for a new shingle laminator facility, an expansion that is expected to create 125 new jobs.

“Missouri makes what the world wants, and manufacturing continues to be an important and growing sector of our economy,” Gov. Nixon said. “In today’s global economy, companies like GAF have many options for where to take their jobs and investments. By choosing to build its new state-of-the-art plant here in Moberly, GAF is recognizing Missouri’s competitive business climate and highly skilled workforce. We are very proud to welcome GAF to the Show-Me State.”

Founded in 1886, GAF has become the largest roofing manufacturer in North America. The company’s products include a comprehensive portfolio of steep-slope and commercial roofing systems, which are supported by an extensive national network of factory-certified contractors. GAF is headquartered in Wayne, N.J., and employs more than 3,200 workers in 30 plants across the country.

During a domestic trade mission to New York and New Jersey last year, Gov. Nixon met with senior GAF executives at the company’s headquarters in Wayne. GAF also has an office in Canada, its largest export partner. Earlier this month, the Governor signed the first-ever trade agreement with the province of Ontario and a $3.2 billion trade agreement with Quebec during a trade mission to Canada.

GAF will build a 320,000 square foot facility in Moberly to house both manufacturing operations and warehousing. The new, state-of-the-art plant will have the highest production capacity in the industry and will be equipped with the most modern technology. GAF’s expansion to Moberly will allow the company to serve its regional clients more efficiently.

“GAF is committed to creating good American manufacturing jobs, and Missouri is the place to do it,” said Bob Tafaro, president and chief executive officer of GAF. “The state offers a low-tax climate and an experienced workforce that create an ideal business environment to help propel GAF’s success. We look forward to the opportunities that locating to Missouri creates.

“Moberly has a strong and skilled workforce, and it is thrilling to see a leading manufacturing company validate that with a significant investment in our community,” said Mayor John Kimmons. “GAF’s expansion here will have resounding benefits for our local and regional economy, and I’m proud to officially welcome them to Moberly.”

To assist GAF with its expansion, the Department of Economic Development has offered a strategic incentive package that the company can receive if it meets strict job creation and investment criteria.