Chinese size-reduction equipment manufacturer Avian Machinery Co. Ltd., Shanghai, which claims to be the world's biggest producer of granulators and shredders for the recycling industry, is increasing its presence in North America.
"The U.S. is becoming a target for Avian," said Mark Miao, owner and president of Avian (Shanghai) Machinery Co. Ltd., in an interview at NPE.
Avian is investing $5 million to $8 million to launch a full-scale manufacturing and assembly operation in West Chicago. The plant will produce granulators, shredders and pulverizers, with a goal of manufacturing 200 units a year within three years.
Avian currently has manufacturing in China and Europe. In addition to manufacturing machines in the U.S., it will ship some parts from Europe and China to be assembled in the U.S.
Avian had worldwide sales of about $65 million last year, with about 30 percent coming from recycling equipment. Miao declined to give U.S. sales. The firm's biggest markets are China, Japan/Korea and Europe.
Miao also said that Avian might move its worldwide headquarters to the U.S. soon.
Miao said the uncertainty of labor and shipping costs associated with manufacturing in China plus the availability of a skilled workforce and good research and development make investing in the U.S. a good move for Avian.
