UK-Based ICOMAT to Establish First US Manufacturing Facility in Vandalia, Ohio

Vandalia, Ohio, will be the new home to ICOMAT, a United Kingdom-based producer of advanced composite parts for the aerospace, automotive, and defense industries. The company announced plans to establish its first North American manufacturing facility in the city, a move expected to create dozens of high-paying jobs and bolster the region’s position as an aerospace innovation hub.

Expanding into the US Market

ICOMAT, founded in 2019 as a spin-off from the University of Bristol, specializes in composite materials manufacturing using its patented Rapid Tow Shearing technology. This technology allows for the automated production of curved composite structures, a process the company claims is the “first and only” of its kind [Dayton Daily News]. The Vandalia facility, located at 815 S. Brown School Road, will bring this technology closer to US customers.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The project is projected to generate 37 research and development positions, along with several production roles [Eagle Dayton]. ICOMAT CEO and Founder Evangelos Zympeloudis emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating, “This expansion represents a significant milestone in our mission to redefine the art of the possible in composite manufacturing.”

Strategic Location in the Dayton Region

The Dayton region was chosen for its thriving aerospace industry and access to a skilled workforce. ICOMAT intends to collaborate with the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) and other local partners. UDRI engineer Brian Rice highlighted the potential of ICOMAT’s technology, calling it “transformational and ideal for the emerging needs of high-rate production for air taxis and drones” [Dayton Daily News].

J.P. Nauseef, President and CEO of JobsOhio, welcomed ICOMAT’s investment in Ohio, noting the region’s advantages, including a strong talent pipeline from institutions like Wright State, Sinclair, and the University of Dayton, coupled with an affordable cost of living [Dayton Daily News].

Industry Collaboration and Future Outlook

ICOMAT’s arrival is seen as a win for the Dayton Development Coalition and JobsOhio, both organizations dedicated to fostering economic growth in the region. The company’s proximity to existing aerospace supply chains is also expected to facilitate collaboration and innovation. The new facility, described as “FACTORY III” [ASP Events], is strategically positioned to serve the growing demand for advanced composite materials in the aerospace and defense sectors.