Mazak Optonics plans new HQ in Elgin, Ill.

Mazak Optonics Corp. plans to move into a new, $10 million North American Headquarters complex in Elgin, Ill., by the end of the first quarter, 2009.

Construction of the new facility—located on a highly visible, eight-acre parcel of land on the northwest corner of Interstate 90 and Randall Road in Elgin—will begin in December. It will compliment the new 100,000-square-foot laser manufacturing plant currently being completed in Minokamo, Japan, according to Mazak Optonics President Bill Citron.

The new Elgin complex will total 50,000 square feet, doubling the space the company currently occupies in Schaumburg. A two-story office building will provide 20,000 square feet of administrative and training space. A 25,000-square-foot showroom with a 37-foot ceiling and a 20-ton crane will allow the installation of up to 18 machines for demonstration and training, and more than doubles the company's current capabilities.

A parts distribution center will occupy 5,000 square feet which more than doubles the current facility, and will house over $4,000,000.00 in spare parts.

"The new building's biggest advantage for customers will be the ability to have a dedicated fleet of machines available for training," Citron said.He added that the entire complex is designed with expansion in mind. Already on the horizon: A machine rebuilding and refurbishing operation and a 100-person auditorium.