Thomas Equipment Ltd. recently launched a $3.2 million expansion of its manufacturing facilities in Centreville, New Brunswick. This will double Thomas' manufacturing capabilities for its line of skid steer loaders.

     Construction began in early July and is expected to be complete by January 2001. This expansion will increase manufacturing floor space by 37,000 square feet and office space by 4,800 square feet. Improvements will also be made to its production line with the addition of two new laser cutting machines, a robot welding installation, a new powder paint system and other new equipment.

     75 new jobs will be created with this expansion, bringing the total workforce up to 400.