Tech firm to locate in Twin-Cities enterprise zone, looks to hire 100 workers

Posted on February 10, 2020
The firm will hire 100 workers. (Photo courtesy: HOI-ABC)

By Heart of Illinois – ABC

NORMAL – A technology firm, based in New York State, is choosing Bloomington to expand its business to the Midwest.

Contec, a logistics and telecommunications repair company that’s been in business for 42 years, plans to hire 100 people at over the next two years in space its leasing at 2402 East Empire, which is in the Bloomington-Normal enterprise zone.

Contec, with headquarters in Schenectady, NY, will hire 40 to 50 people to start, according to a news release issued Monday by the Blooomington-Normal Economic Development Council.

“This is an important expansion for our company and our customers. Adding this facility will enable us to offer our customers faster turnaround and lower transportation costs for their Midwest markets.” Contec Chief Executive Officer Joseph Joy said in a prepared statement.

“We searched extensively for the right location and are delighted to be landing in Bloomington.” Joy also said.

The property is owned by industrial developer Agracel, which is investing $675,000 in the building to accommodate Contec’s needs.

The building is 225,000 square feet. Agracel will initially rent 56,000 square feet to Contec, and 95,000 square feet over two years, according to the news release.

“We are thrilled to add Contec to our portfolio of clients and look forward to working together to bring jobs and investment to the Bloomington area,” said Dean Bingham, Agracel’s president and chief operating officer.

Contec is not requesting tax breaks from local governments, except for the sales tax exemption on building materials that’s available to occupants of the enterprise zone, said Patrick Hoban, president and chief executive officer of the Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council.

“Contec’s announcement marks another new business in the Bloomington-Normal region. The McLean County Chamber of Commerce looks forward to providing Contec with the connections and support to grow their business here in central Illinois,” said Nathan Hinch, who chairs the McLean County Chamber of Commerce.

Contec is currently accepting applications on their website www.gocontec.com.

Heart of Illinois – ABC can be reached at [email protected]. 

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