Investment in Randolph will create 175 new jobs, strengthening local impact and boosting production capacity to meet rising demand
East Trailers LLC, a leading supplier of trailers to the North America commercial vehicle market, is fueling its next phase of growth with a major expansion that will increase production capacity, create 175 new jobs, retain 435 existing positions, and include a $3 million capital investment in its operations. In support of the project, the Ohio Department of Development approved a tax credit during today’s Ohio Tax Credit Authority meeting, reinforcing confidence in East’s continued impact and momentum.
Since joining Fultra in 2023, East Trailers has accelerated its momentum and will expand its portfolio to include proven trailer products from its parent company, unlocking new levels of innovation. This investment will significantly boost production capacity and introduce advanced design capabilities, positioning East to deliver even greater performance, versatility, and value to customers.
“Being the preferred partner in transportation starts with showing up consistently and meaningfully in the communities and markets we serve,” said Chris Olson, President & CEO of East Trailers LLC. “For nearly 60 years, East has been built on the strength of our people, our products, and the partnerships we’ve forged across a growing network of more than 35 dealers with over 100 locations throughout the United States and Canada. That foundation continues to drive how we serve our customers and how we lead the industry forward.
“By maintaining open, ongoing dialogue with our customers, we stay focused on what matters most to them and help shape a smarter, more capable path forward. As we introduce new products and service capabilities, we’re strengthening our ability to support customers at every stage of their operation. Combined with our continued investment in local communities and a forward-looking approach to growth, we are positioning East to lead, and redefine, performance in the vocational truck body and trailer industry.”
This investment demonstrates how a coordinated ecosystem including the City of Randolph, Portage Development Board, ODOD, JobsOhio, and Team NEO, can come together to help companies grow. Local, regional and state leaders echoed a shared commitment to the company’s continued growth and impact in the region.
“East Trailers has been a part of Portage County for nearly 60 years, and the Portage Development Board is pleased that Fultra is committed to growing East in Randolph Township,” said Portage Development Board President Brad Ehrhart.
“East Trailer’s expansion in Portage County demonstrates the company’s confidence in its existing workforce and the facility’s strategic location in the core of the automotive manufacturing sector,” said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef. “This latest investment will bring a new line to boost capacity and efficiencies while adding new products to the plant’s production portfolio.”
“We’re proud to support East Trailers LLC as it grows its operations here,” said Team NEO Chief Executive Officer Matt Dolan. “This expansion brings new jobs, new investment, and strengthens the supply chains that support transportation and logistics across Ohio and beyond.”
East Trailers LLC
East Trailers LLC is a leading manufacturer of a full line of aluminum flatbed, drop deck, dump and refuse trailers. Additionally East offers one of the best steel dump trailers in the industry. East is also known for its durable dump and platform truck bodies available in both steel and aluminum. East products serve the commercial vehicle, construction, agricultural and refuse markets. Headquartered in Randolph, Ohio, East has provided innovative standard and custom trailer products that deliver superior performance, strength and flexibility for nearly 60 years through its network of over 100 dealer locations across the United States and Canada. East also offers a full aftermarket parts and service program to serve our customers across the nation. Visit East Trailers LLC at East-Trailers.com.
About Team NEO
Team NEO is a private, nonprofit economic development organization that retains, expands, and attracts jobs, businesses, and opportunities across Northeast Ohio’s 14-county region. As JobsOhio’s exclusive partner in Northeast Ohio, Team NEO connects businesses to the data, resources, sites, and incentives to win new business investment for Northeast Ohio. The organization also provides insights to build talent pipelines, prepares development-ready sites, and markets the region as a premier business destination. To learn how Team NEO helps make Northeast Ohio more competitive, visit northeastohioregion.com.
About JobsOhio
JobsOhio, Ohio’s private nonprofit economic development corporation, enhances company growth and personnel development through business attraction, retention, and expansion across ten competitive industry sectors. With a team of seasoned professionals, JobsOhio utilizes a comprehensive network to foster talent production in targeted industries and attract talent through Find Your Ohio. Collaborating with seven regional partners, including Dayton Development Coalition, Lake to River Economic Development, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, One Columbus, REDI Cincinnati, Regional Growth Partnership, and Team NEO. JobsOhio delivers world-class customer service to provide companies with a competitive advantage.