Switzerland-based Schwihag has announced plans to invest approximately $5.5 million in its Winfield manufacturing facility, adding robotic technology and advanced manufacturing equipment to increase production capacity and support continued growth.
The company, a global manufacturer of railroad fastening systems and turnout solutions, finalized the purchase of a 30,000-square-foot property in the Winfield Industrial Park in December 2024.
The latest investment will bring automated manufacturing technology and supporting equipment to the facility. The expansion is expected to result in an additional shift and create new manufacturing and professional office positions.
The company did not specify how many jobs would be added.
As part of the expansion, Schwihag expects to add approximately 1.6 megawatts of electric demand, representing a significant increase in the facility’s use of Winfield’s municipal electric system. Continue story below ad.
“Winfield’s strength in utility infrastructure and utility cost was a significant factor in why we chose to grow in Kansas,” said Marc Raymond, Schwihag’s General Manager Americas.
City Manager Taggart Wall said the investment reflects Winfield’s ability to support industrial growth and the increasing use of advanced manufacturing technology.
“We are excited about Schwihag’s decision to invest further in Winfield and our manufacturing sector,” Wall said. “Advanced manufacturing is changing the way products are made, and this investment demonstrates that Winfield can provide the infrastructure and environment needed for our industrial partners to adopt new technologies, expand production and remain competitive.”
Winfield has a long history as an industrial community and has invested in electric, water and other infrastructure to accommodate large manufacturing and processing operations.
Jessica Falk, director of the Cowley County Economic Development Partnership, said the expansion is another example of the importance of supporting existing employers.
“We appreciate Schwihag’s continued investment in Cowley County,” Falk said. “Helping our existing industries grow and prepare for the next generation of manufacturing is an important part of Cowley County’s economic development strategy.”
The project was originally expected to be completed in fall 2026, with new equipment and expanded production capacity becoming operational before the end of the year.
