IGT has completed a $15 million expansion to accommodate a new, state-of-the-art instant ticket press at its facility in Lakeland, Florida. The addition of approximately 45,000 square feet allows space for a new instant ticket TRESU press, extra production area, a new shipping and receiving area, secure office space, and secured finish goods storage.
Since the facility first opened in 2009, employment has grown by 112%, representing $11.7 million in annual payroll wages. The expansion is expected to increase full-time employment by an additional 24% by the end of 2021.
“This state-of-the-art facility is part of the economic engine for Lakeland,” said U.S. Congressman Dennis Ross. “This facility benefits both employees and local businesses alike. From construction jobs to expand the facility to IGT using a number of local vendors ensuring the plant is kept up-and-running, the local economy is benefiting from IGT’s investment in Florida, and the Lakeland community.”
“Today is about a strong partnership we’ve developed with the Lakeland Economic Development Council (LEDC),” said IGT COO, Lottery, Jay Gendron. “Working together with the LEDC, IGT has developed relationships with Lakeland businesses and contractors, and we’ve created several new jobs as part of our expansion project. The substantial investment we are making now is a true indication of IGT’s commitment to Lakeland in the years to come.”
The new servo-controlled TRESU press is now operational and will increase IGT’s printing capacity by approximately 30%. The TRESU is the newest in the industry, incorporating the latest advancements in flexography technology, and complements IGT’s current servo-controlled Gallus press, which also utilizes flexography technology.
“The new TRESU press is very important to our printing business and allows us to service our lottery customers in a greater capacity,” continued Mr. Gendron. “The TRESU will complement and expand our current production capabilities, scheduling flexibility, and capacity. In fact, the addition of this second press actually increases production capacity in the overall industry, something that has not been done in more than 13 years.”