German auto parts firm GEIGER to open Gwinnett plant

A German auto parts maker plans to open a new factory in Gwinnett County, a move the state and company says will create 120 jobs over several years.

GEIGER Automotive plans to open the plant in Suwanee and make components for vehicle cooling and braking systems. GEIGER becomes the latest German automotive firm to pick Georgia, following announcements of major expansions Haring, Erdrich and the U.S. headquarters of luxury brand Mercedes-Benz.

Georgia economic development officials have made the automotive industry a top priority. The state Department of Economic Development has pushed for business for suppliers of Volkswagen, which has a factory in just across the border in Chattanooga, Tenn. The state is also pursuing a Volvo factory.

“GEIGER Automotive’s decision to locate its U.S. facility in Gwinnett County underscores not only our booming auto hub, but also the growth of German companies in Georgia,” state economic development commissioner Chris Carr said in a news release.