CW Bearing Expands Guanajuato Plant, Eyes 50–60% Sales Rise

CW Bearing has completed Phase 2 of its expansion at its Guanajuato manufacturing facility, following three years of equipment installation, process optimization, and the launch of new production lines. The company now plans a third phase to support further growth and strengthen its position as a supplier to automotive OEMs.

“While the building expansion was completed earlier, we have spent the last three years installing machinery, optimizing processes, and preparing for long-term growth,” said Mauricio Ramírez Modesto, general manager, CW Technology Mexico. “This strategy will allow us to increase sales by 50 to 60% over the next three years with minimal additional space investment.”

Originally inaugurated in 2018, the Guanajuato plant is part of CW Bearing’s North American network, which includes manufacturing and sales operations in Northville, Michigan, a corporate office in Irvine, California, and distribution centers across Michigan, North Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. In 2022, the facility doubled its footprint from 5,100 to 10,200 square meters. 

Recent investments include full in-house manufacturing of ball nuts (IBNA)  — from steel bar to finished product — expansion of four-point and double-row angular contact bearing production, upgraded deep groove bearing assembly with new equipment, and the opening of a metrology laboratory to enhance quality control and product validation.

“The manufacturing of ball screws represents a significant portion of our growth, and we are focused on expanding that line of business,” said Jay Click, Vice President of Operations for North America. “We are also moving into segments such as wheel hub bearings to meet evolving customer needs.”

CW Bearing has also implemented an eco-friendly coolant, reducing related costs by 36% and minimizing hazardous waste. “Most initiatives come from our clients,” Click added, “and we increasingly see demand for products manufactured through lower-carbon processes.” The company is also exploring vehicle fleet electrification and other internal sustainability strategies.

The expansion has created new jobs and reinforced CW Bearing’s role as a key regional contributor. “Primarily, this will support growth in the automotive sector,” said Kyle Weyers, Director of Industrial Sales. “It will also benefit sectors that value local production, including recreational vehicles, automation, and robotics.