Tonawanda, October 15, 2025
Hwa Fong Rubber has acquired the former Sumitomo Rubber USA plant in Tonawanda, New York, with plans to develop a state-of-the-art industrial park. This initiative will create hundreds of advanced manufacturing jobs and aims to revitalize the local economy. The redevelopment includes flexible leasing units for various industries and emphasizes environmental sustainability. Community leaders view this project as a way to secure future jobs and enhance supply chain resilience in the region, addressing concerns over local unemployment caused by previous manufacturing losses.
Tonawanda, New York: Hwa Fong Rubber to Revitalize Former Sumitomo Plant into Industrial Park
Tonawanda, New York – Hwa Fong Rubber has finalized a deal to purchase the former Sumitomo Rubber USA plant in Tonawanda, with plans to transform the sprawling facility into a state-of-the-art industrial park. The redevelopment initiative, aimed at attracting multiple manufacturers to lease space, is expected to create hundreds of jobs focused on advanced production roles. This move addresses local concerns over unemployment and strengthens regional supply chains amid economic shifts.
Key Details of the Transformation
The acquisition marks a significant step for the 2.2 million-square-foot site, which has been idle since Sumitomo’s closure earlier this year. Hwa Fong Rubber, a Taiwan-based manufacturer, intends to divide the property into flexible leasing units suitable for diverse industries, including advanced manufacturing and logistics. By repurposing the existing infrastructure, the project minimizes construction timelines and costs, allowing for quicker occupancy.
Job creation remains a cornerstone of the plan, with projections for hundreds of positions in high-skill areas such as automation, quality control, and sustainable production. These roles will prioritize local hiring, potentially reducing unemployment rates in Erie County, which have hovered around 4% in recent months. The initiative also emphasizes enhanced supply chain resilience, enabling tenants to operate more efficiently in response to global disruptions like tariffs and material shortages.
Environmental considerations are integrated into the blueprint. Upgrades will include modern energy-efficient systems, waste reduction technologies, and compliance with New York’s stringent environmental standards. This approach not only lowers operational costs for future tenants but also aligns with state goals for greener industrial development.
Community and Economic Impacts
Local leaders in Tonawanda have welcomed the news, highlighting its potential to stabilize the economy in a region hit hard by manufacturing losses. The industrial park is seen as a catalyst for ancillary growth, such as increased demand for suppliers and services. Mayor John Citizen noted that the deal paves the way for a more secure future by retaining skilled workers and fostering innovation.
Optimism extends beyond immediate employment gains. By drawing in multiple tenants, the site could diversify Tonawanda’s industrial base, reducing reliance on single-sector operations. This diversification is crucial as Western New York navigates broader economic pressures, including rising energy costs and cautious holiday hiring trends reported across the state.
Background on the Site and Deal
The Tonawanda plant, once a hub for tire production, employed thousands before Sumitomo announced its shutdown due to competitive pressures. The closure left a void in the local job market and raised questions about the site’s future. Hwa Fong Rubber’s purchase, valued in the tens of millions, reflects confidence in the area’s workforce and infrastructure.
This redevelopment fits into a larger pattern of industrial revitalization in the Buffalo-Niagara region. Nearby efforts, such as Ingram Micro’s downtown move and the 43North finals, underscore a push to blend manufacturing with innovation. As the project advances, it could serve as a model for other shuttered facilities, demonstrating how strategic investments can turn economic setbacks into opportunities.
The timeline for initial leasing and renovations is set for the coming months, with full operations anticipated within the next two years. Stakeholders emphasize collaboration between Hwa Fong Rubber, local government, and community groups to ensure the park meets diverse needs while prioritizing sustainability and inclusivity.
Broader Implications for Western New York
In a time when national headlines focus on automotive shifts like GM’s $1.6 billion hit from EV policy changes, local projects like this one highlight grassroots resilience. Tonawanda’s transformation not only revives a key asset but also positions the area as a player in the evolving U.S. manufacturing landscape. As details unfold, the community watches closely for the ripple effects on daily life and long-term prosperity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of Hwa Fong Rubber’s purchase of the former Sumitomo plant?
Hwa Fong Rubber plans to transform the former Sumitomo plant in Tonawanda into a state-of-the-art industrial park. The initiative includes leasing space to multiple manufacturers, aiming to employ hundreds in advanced production roles.
How will the project impact local employment?
The initiative includes leasing space to multiple manufacturers, aiming to employ hundreds in advanced production roles.
What environmental aspects are included in the redevelopment?
Environmental upgrades are also part of the redevelopment strategy.
How does this project benefit the community?
Community leaders expressed optimism about reduced unemployment and enhanced supply chain resilience.
What did Tonawanda’s mayor say about the deal?
This deal secures a bright future for our workforce, said Tonawanda Mayor John Citizen.
Key Features of the Industrial Park Redevelopment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Purchase Details | Hwa Fong Rubber to purchase former Sumitomo Rubber facility |
| Transformation Plan | Transform into a state-of-the-art industrial park |
| Leasing Strategy | Leasing space to multiple manufacturers |
| Employment Impact | Aiming to employ hundreds in advanced production roles |
| Community Benefits | Reduced unemployment and enhanced supply chain resilience |
| Environmental Focus | Environmental upgrades as part of the strategy |
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Taiwan-Based Hwa Fong Rubber to Acquire Sumitomo Facility in Tonawanda
