Technology manufacturing companies Protocase and 45Drives have rapidly advanced their U.S. expansion strategy by initiating production at a new facility in Wilmington, North Carolina, ahead of their original timeline. The 12,000-square-foot location represents a significant investment in domestic manufacturing capabilities, with immediate plans to produce high-performance data storage servers and related components.
The new facility will initially focus on sub-assembly operations for 45Drives, specifically assembling Storinator and Storinator Hybrid servers. By mid-March, production is expected to begin, with a gradual transition toward full manufacturing capabilities. The strategic location will enable the companies to integrate their existing supply chain from their Nova Scotia headquarters while establishing a robust U.S.-based production environment.
Doug Milburn, President of 45Drives, emphasized the company's commitment to creating high-value manufacturing opportunities in the United States. The facility is designed to support high-efficiency production and job creation, with plans to expand operational capacity and potentially develop local manufacturing of circuit boards and metal components.
The expansion reflects a broader trend in technology manufacturing toward localized production, offering potential benefits such as reduced shipping times, enhanced supply chain resilience, and increased responsiveness to U.S. market demands. By establishing a dedicated manufacturing presence, Protocase and 45Drives position themselves to more effectively serve U.S. customers while demonstrating flexibility in their production strategies.
Steve Lilley, President of Protocase, highlighted the facility as a cornerstone of their growth strategy, underscoring the company's dedication to innovation in precision manufacturing and data infrastructure. The new location represents more than just a production site; it symbolizes a strategic commitment to developing domestic manufacturing capabilities in the technology sector.
As the facility ramps up production, it will initially focus on assembling existing server models like the Storinator and the upcoming high-performance Stornado F16. The phased approach allows the companies to optimize their workflow, integrate local talent, and gradually increase manufacturing complexity and capacity.
The move signals potential broader implications for the technology manufacturing landscape, showcasing how companies can effectively localize production while maintaining global supply chain efficiencies. By investing in U.S. manufacturing infrastructure, Protocase and 45Drives are not only expanding their operational capabilities but also contributing to the growth of domestic technology manufacturing.
