Laurel Manufacturer Plans Expansion, 50 New Jobs

Iron World Will Invest in New Equipment to Increase Production and Sales

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Iron World™, the fastest-growing distributor of decorative steel fences and gates in the country, is expanding its manufacturing operations in Howard County and adding 50 new jobs in the next two years. The company will invest $1 million in the project to streamline its manufacturing process and reduce costs. Improvements include exterior upgrades and extra storage space, as well as a new automated routing machine and an additional panel assembly machine, which will significantly decrease assembly time and increase production by 300 percent.

“We are thankful for the help in automating our manufacturing operations to ship steel and aluminum fence panels around the country,” said Richard Stellabuto, president of Iron World. “This investment will allow us to produce our products for less, lower our cost, and increase sales.”

Iron World’s products are made from raw steel, allowing the company to produce items in a variety of shapes and sizes. In December, the company totaled more than $3.5 million in sales. Their world-class products can be found at the Pentagon, Washington Monument, Nationals Park, numerous bridges and schools across the country, as well as locally in Howard County.

"Iron World growing its manufacturing operations in Maryland and taking advantage of our outstanding workforce is tremendous news,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “This expansion, and the 50 new jobs it will create, is a win for our state as we work to provide new and better opportunities for hardworking Marylanders.”

“Iron World’s expansion is another sign that Howard County continues to fare well in today’s competitive climate,” said Howard County Executive Allan H. Kittleman. “This latest investment and promised job expansion strengthens our manufacturing economy along the Route 1 corridor.”

To assist with project costs, the Maryland Department of Commerce has approved a $300,000 conditional loan through the Maryland Economic Development Assistance Authority and Fund (MEDAAF). Additionally, the Howard County Economic Development Authority will provide a workforce training grant to support the expansion. The company is also eligible for various tax credits, including Maryland’s Job Creation Tax Credit.

“Maryland Commerce is proud to support Iron World’s expansion and in particular the company’s new equipment purchase, which will significantly boost production,” said Maryland Department of Commerce Secretary Mike Gill. “Iron World is one of numerous manufacturers that has chosen to expand operations in our state in recent months and we are pleased to be able to work with our county partners to ensure these companies remain and thrive in Maryland.”

Iron World operates its own fleet of trucks and prides itself on delivering and providing the best quality products to satisfied customers nationwide. For more information about the company and to learn about available jobs, visitwww.ironworldfencing.com.