BRISTOL, Ind. - Industrial wood product manufacturer MJB Wood has begun constructing a new 500,000-square-foot distribution and fabrication center in Northern Indiana. 

The new plant will replace an older 228,000-square-foot building that the company says it has outgrown. The new location will increase MJB's ability to meet the sourcing needs of customers in the immediate area and throughout the Midwest, including those in the RV industry - one of its primary markets.

Over the past five years, MJB says it has experienced tremendous growth in the region, exceeding 18 percent year-over-year revenue growth.

"We are excited to invest in this new facility because of MJB's commitment to the vibrant RV industry in Northern Indiana and the surrounding areas. This new facility will improve the efficiency of inbound and outbound freight, which will allow MJB to deliver more freight on time, while respecting the tight receiving window of customers," said Scott Griggs, president of MJB Wood Group.

The new facility will also include a 100,000 square-foot fabrication area that will allow MJB to offer custom services such as cut- to-size, CNC machining, moulding, kitting, and light assembly.

"We're investing tens of millions of dollars in our new facility in Elkhart County because of the area's strategic importance to the RV industry," said Jeff Messick, executive vice president of MJB Wood Group. "Elkhart County manufactures 80% of the recreational vehicles on the road today, and the industry dates back nearly a century. More than a dozen major manufacturers of RVs call Elkhart County home, and we're proud to call Elkhart home as well."

The new facility will employ 100 people, twice the number the current facility employs.

MJB Wood Group provides a diverse line of panel products, components, millwork, and specialty products to the millwork, cabinet, door, furniture, fixture/display, and RV/transportation segments throughout North America, Asia, and Europe.