Gov. Pritzker Cuts Ribbon at Voortman’s Grand Opening Facility

MONEE – Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and Voortman Steel Machinery leadership to commemorate the grand opening of the company’s $51 million expansion project. Illinois is home to Voortman Steel Machinery’s U.S. headquarters, and Governor Pritzker broke ground on the project in October 2024 when it was first announced. ​ ​

Voortman’s expansion is another example of Illinois' position as a growing hub for advanced manufacturing and supply chain and adds to a growing list of companies expanding or establishing their business in the state, including Ability Engineering Technology, Combe, Hyundai Translead, and more. ​ ​

“Illinois has built one of the most robust economic development efforts in the country, and the Voortman expansion is a perfect example of our strategy in action,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Voortman’s new facility is strengthening the supply chain and reinforcing Illinois' position as a growing hub for advanced manufacturing. Companies that invest in Illinois now have full confidence to grow here, and I cannot wait to see what Voortman builds in Monee for years to come.”

"It is wonderful to see manufacturing and industry continue to plant roots in Illinois," said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. "Expanding their facility in Monee gives Voortman access to our world-class workforce and infrastructure—building business and community."

As a global leading manufacturer of CNC steel processing machinery and software solutions, Netherlands-based Voortman Steel Group’s family business has continued to grow since its founding in 1968. Incorporated in Illinois in 2005, Voortman USA was created to serve customers across North, Central, and South America – with North America serving as one of the company’s most vital sales regions for the last decade. ​ ​

“Today’s grand opening is a proud moment for Voortman USA, but it is also a proud moment for this community. When we broke ground, we talked about building a foundation for future growth, and today that vision has become reality. This facility represents more than new walls and equipment — it represents new opportunities for people in this region, including technical jobs, hands-on training, and long-term career paths in a modern, clean manufacturing environment. We are grateful to our employees, local leaders, state partners, and everyone who helped bring this project to life. Most of all, we are excited to grow here, invest here, and be a committed part of this community for many years to come,” said Voortman USA President Ben Morrall.

“Voortman’s contribution to global supply chains through use of its cutting-edge CNC steel processing machinery and software solutions in a wide range of applications in advanced manufacturing is one reason why Illinois is excited see Voortman expand here in Monee,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “The State’s EDGE program helped to make this $51.4 million investment a reality and will strengthen Illinois as a leader in advanced manufacturing and create new jobs in Will County.” ​ ​

The facility includes a new 100,000-square-foot building, and the company’s investment will create 51 new jobs and retain 40 existing positions. This expansion allows Voortman to meet increased customer demand and company growth by creating new jobs and capabilities to provide a high quality of customer service while moving their supply chain to Illinois. ​ ​

"Putting people to work in great jobs is our shared goal and priority. It's exciting to see Voortman Steel Machinery open the doors to its new facility and bring more manufacturing jobs to Illinois,” said Illinois Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park). "Senator Joyce and Governor Pritzker deserve a lot of credit for making this investment a reality.”

“Today we welcome another exciting piece of the 21st Century economy to Illinois,” said Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch (D-Hillside). “The new jobs, investments, and innovation at this facility are examples of the beneficial partnership between a worldwide company looking to grow and a state rebuilt by smart, forward-looking budgets that invest in creators, in our workforce, and in our infrastructure.”

“When we heard a thriving business like Voortman Steel was looking for a new home, I knew the 40th District could be a perfect fit,” said State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex). “Voortman is assembling steel, building up supply chains, creating jobs and doing some of the most advanced steel fabrication, all right here in Monee.”

“Voortman’s continued investment in our community will have positive impacts on our local workforce, families, and economy for generations to come," said State Representative Jackie Haas (R-Kankakee). “We are all incredibly proud that Voortman chose the 79th District as their U.S. Headquarters, and this expansion reflects their commitment to our community. I’m excited to see the opportunities Voortman will continue to create across the region!”

Guided by Illinois’ Economic Growth Plan, Governor Pritzker continues to build the foundation for long-term success by focusing on key growth industries including advanced manufacturing, manufacturing supply chain, and transportation, distribution, and logistics. That competitive advantage is helping attract projects like Voortman’s $51 million investment, which further solidifies the state’s role as a premier destination to locate or expand a business with its top-ranked infrastructure, access to supply chains, and skilled workforce.

“Voortman’s decision to bring more of its manufacturing and supply chain operations to Illinois demonstrates what our state offers global companies looking to grow in the U.S.,” said Illinois Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Christy George. “Illinois offers a skilled workforce, unmatched transportation network, strong manufacturing base, and access to customers across North America. We’re proud to see Voortman create new opportunities here.” ​

“Voortman represents best-in-class manufacturing, combining cutting-edge technology with a complete, end-to-end approach. This new production line adds to Illinois’ rich legacy of innovative machine manufacturers,” said Mark Denzler, president & CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association.

This project was bolstered by the State’s Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement with Voortman Steel Machinery, which is available here. So far in 2026, companies participating in the EDGE program have committed to creating nearly 6,000 new jobs and more than $2.6 billion in investments. ​ ​ ​

"On behalf of the Village of Monee, I want to thank Voortman for their vision, their confidence in our community, and their commitment to Monee. We are excited to see all that the future holds and look forward to their continued success here,” said Mayor of Monee Dr. Therese Bogs.

“Voortman Steel Group’s expansion demonstrates that Will County remains a leader in manufacturing and sustained economic development,” said Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant. “As we compete in the global economy, Will County remains a place where businesses can grow, invest, and create opportunities for working families. I appreciate Voortman and the State of Illinois for their continued investment into our local communities.”

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