Toyota Supplier To Locate in Mississippi

$180 million plant to employ 260

JACKSON, Miss., July 26, 2007 -- Governor Haley Barbour said today Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd. (TAB) will build a $180 million plant in North Mississippi, becoming the first announced supplier to Toyota's new auto assembly plant in Blue Springs. TAB officials made the decision public in Japan overnight.

While a specific site for TAB's facility has not yet been chosen, a number of locations are under consideration; an announcement will be made later this year. It will be the company's first plant in the United States.

The facility, to be named Auto Parts Manufacturing Mississippi Inc., will employ about 260 workers and will begin production by 2010 to coincide with the start-up of Toyota's new Highlander SUV plant.

"During our recent economic development mission to Japan the Mississippi delegation visited with Toyota Auto Body officials and came away impressed with the company's high standards and interest in doing business in Mississippi. I am very pleased this outstanding company will find a new home in North Mississippi as a major supplier to Toyota's newest auto assembly plant," Governor Haley Barbour said.

Auto Parts Manufacturing Mississippi Inc. will provide stamped parts, body weld parts and plastic parts to the Blue Springs plant. The company plans to incorporate in Mississippi next month.