Fronius announces plans for new U.S. headquarters in Portage, Ind.

Austria-based Fronius International GmbH, a developer and manufacturer of battery charging systems, welding technology, and solar electronics, has announced plans to launch its U.S. headquarters in Portage, Ind., in the third quarter of 2012. Indiana Governor Mitchell E. Daniels and Portage Mayor Olga G. Velazquez joined Fronius executives, employees, and other dignitaries in the Northwest Indiana at a ceremony on June 23, 2011 at the future site of the Fronius U.S. headquarters.

The Portage facility tentatively will employ up to 512 people by the end of 2016 in a variety of capacities, including technology positions, production roles, and office administration jobs. Some employees will transfer from the company's current Michigan-based office. The current location will continue to support the surrounding regions with sales, service, and application support now and in the future. With the addition of the Portage location, Fronius will employ over 4,000 people throughout the world.

"The people of Indiana have been very helpful in welcoming us to the community," said Wolfgang Niedrist, managing director for U.S. sales of Fronius. "We can’t wait to get to know Portage even better as we open our doors."

"We're excited to bring new jobs anywhere in Indiana, but we're particularly excited Fronius has chosen northwest Indiana," said Governor Daniels. "Fronius is well-established, fast-growing, and at the top of their field, exactly the kind of company we've rebuilt the Indiana business climate to attract."