Murakami Manufacturing USA expands in Taylor Co.
WHEN THE MURAKAMI CORPORATION broke ground in Taylor County 25 years ago on its first North American factory, the company had already been in existence for more than a century.
Based in Shizuoka, Japan, Murakami’s long history started in 1882 with founder Isaburo Murakami I and three apprentices fashioning metal ornaments and tin work. Not long after, the company’s entry into the glass and mirror industry set the course for its future.
During the automobile boom of the late 1950s the Toyota Motor Corporation enlisted Murakami to develop prototypes and manufacture a better rearview mirror.
In Taylor County today, Murakami Manufacturing USA employs about 350 people as a Tier 1 supplier specializing in the production of side-view exterior mirrors and components used in a wide range of automobiles, ranging from luxury cars to Toyota, Honda and Subaru vehicles. The company ships more than 2.5 million mirrors each year.
In January, the company announced a $3.4 million investment to meet growing industry and customer demand, expanding the facility’s shipping area to help maintain peak operational efficiency and ensure a seamless flow of products.
“While this expansion focuses on enhancing our shipping capacity rather than adding new jobs currently, it reflects the exceptional dedication and efficiency of our team members at Murakami,” says Angie Miller, general manager of Murakami Manufacturing.
“Their commitment to quality has enabled us to meet the growing demands of our customers by increasing the volume of products shipped from our facility.
“Looking ahead, we remain optimistic about the potential to create new jobs in the future, as this community continues to demonstrate a strong work ethic and deep pride in the products we produce for our customers.”
Community partner
Civic leaders applaud Murakami Manufacturing USA’s role as a corporate citizen committed to remaining a cornerstone of the local community.
“What an exciting time for Campbellsville and Taylor County,” says Taylor County Judge-Executive Barry Smith. “Murakami has been a vital part of our economy for many years. We are proud to have them expand their warehouse in our community.”
The facility is served by Taylor County RECC, whose leadership says Murakami’s goal to be an “Employer of Choice” in the community is affirmed by the company’s civic engagement.
“From a hot air balloon glow to canned food drives and sponsorship of community events, Murakami USA is a great example of what being a corporate citizen is all about,” says Jeff Williams, the co-op’s president and CEO. “Many of the company’s employees are consumer-members of Taylor County RECC. We want them to know how much we appreciate them.”
