Automotive Component Facility Linde + Wiemann

Gleeds’ Atlanta team delivers $16 million manufacturing expansion for Linde + Wiemann

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Expanding and enhancing Linde + Wiemann’s production capabilities to improve capacity and create a better environment for their employees.

Linde + Wiemann (L+W), a trusted supplier of automotive structural components and assemblies, embarked on a significant expansion project. The aim? To enhance their production capabilities and create a more positive environment for their employees. Gleeds was chosen to provide comprehensive project and cost management services for this major initiative.

The project comprised two key deliverables:

  • An 86,000 SF manufacturing expansion: This addition focused on providing more space to optimize their production processes, with the potential to increase capacity and efficiency
  • A 4,000 SF administrative space addition and renovation: This component sought to improve working conditions for L+W’s staff

90,000

SF

Project size

86,000

SF

Manufacturing expansion

4,000

SF

Addition for administrative space to existing facility 

$ 16

million 

project value

The challenge

Our team noted two significant logistical challenges from the offset. The first was determining how to install interior cranes, a component of the new manufacturing space, without creating disruption to ongoing production. 

The crane supplier suggested removing sections of the roof, which conflicted with the active operation in the adjacent hall. Early on, L+W stakeholders had emphasised that halting production was not an option.

The second challenge stemmed from the proximity of the expansion to the active production hall. With the company remaining operational throughout the engagement, dust, noise and vibrations had to be fully monitored and controlled. Without this, the staff’s work environment would have been comprised.

As with any project of this complexity and size, collaboration is the main driver of success. The team initiated a series of coordination meetings involving the crane supplier, contractor and structural engineer so all parties could devise a creative solution for installing the cranes. Instead of removing sections of the roof and disrupting production, the plan involved strategically placing four curbed openings in the existing structure. External erection cranes could then carefully position the interior cranes "through" the roof.

The solution

In response to the other challenge, the team partnered with L+W stakeholders and the contractor to carefully plan construction activities. Similarly to other projects we have worked on in this sector, work was strategically scheduled outside of regular production hours or implemented in phases. This not only guaranteed minimal interference with production but also minimized dust, noise and vibrations.

Our team’s hard work and adaptability extended beyond overcoming logistical hurdles. Collaboration was initiated between L+W and the contractor to identify and procure long-lead-time items well in advance. This ensured items arrived on schedule, avoiding overruns, delays or further disruption to ongoing production.

Cost management was another area our team tackled. Through thorough reviews and negotiations, they secured significant cost savings. Examples include reviewing and resolving contractor pricing, both for the overall project and any necessary change orders. 

The future

With project management experience at the highest levels of commercial development, our Atlanta team delivered a turnkey facility that exceeded quality standards. With an estimated budget of $16 million, the project will play a central role in driving L+W’s continued growth and success.

At Gleeds, we take pride in projects that contribute to more than just bricks and mortar. Seeing the potential impact on employee morale, productivity and overall company cohesion aligns perfectly with our core values.

The success of our project wasn't just about meeting deadlines, it was about strategic planning and seamless collaboration. The Gleeds team quickly devised a comprehensive project plan, working closely with the design team and general contractor. This ensured not only the timely completion of the client’s facility but also the achievement of our client's critical production milestone. It's a testament to Gleeds’ commitment to precision and effective teamwork.

Suzan Talley
Vice President of Operations for Gleeds Americas SE, Atlanta, United States