Republic Steel has Invested $12 Million in its Plants Over the Last 18 Months Preparing for Increased Market Demand

CANTON, Ohio, June 20, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Republic Steel, the nation's leading provider of special bar quality (SBQ) steel, says it's been preparing its plants by investing $12 million over the last 18 months to supply increased market demand.

The 232 steel tariffs have created additional demand for steel and Republic has the expertise, quality and open capacity to take on this increase in demand. At its Canton facility, Republic has hired 25 new employees this year, is recruiting for 50 additional positions, and has recently invested over $6 million in its melt shop to increase its average production capacity from 40,000 tons per month to 75,000 tons per month.

At its Lackawanna, N.Y. facility, Republic has hired 50 new employees this year, is recruiting for 30 additional positions, and has also recently invested approximately $3 million in its rolling facility to increase its average production capacity from 40,000 tons per month to 60,000 tons per month. More specifically, at this facility, Republic added a fourth crew on the rolling mill and increased its finishing and inspection capacity.

Additionally, Republic anticipates restarting the 9"/10" rolling mill at its Lorain, Ohio plant in September 2018 followed by the electric arc furnace as orders dictate. The first phase of this would have Republic hire 80 people over the next two months for the rolling mill. This rolling mill has capacity of 35,000 tons per month, which will expand its size range down to 7.5mm and free up additional capacity at Lackawanna.

"We have capacity available to supply the market now," said Jaime Vigil, President & CEO. "We've been preparing our facilities to accommodate an increase in demand and are ready to take on new customers who want to buy from a U.S. manufacturer."

About Republic Steel

Republic Steel is North America's leading supplier of special bar quality (SBQ) steel, a highly engineered product. Republic's products include hot rolled steel bars, cold finished steel bars, cold heading quality rod and wire and leaded steel bars. With headquarters in Canton, Ohio and steelmaking capabilities in Canton, and Lorain, Ohio, the company also operates value-added rolling and finishing facilities in Canton, Lorain, Massillon, and Solon Ohio; and Lackawanna, N.Y. Republic employs approximately 850 people.

For Additional Information Contact:
Ted Thielens                                                   
Republic Steel                                                
330-438-5610
[email protected]    

SOURCE Republic Steel