MADISON (AP) — Foxconn Technology Group says its manufacturing facility in Wisconsin will be producing liquid crystal display screens by the end of 2020, with construction starting later this year.
The news Monday comes after worldwide electronics manufacturing leader sent mixed signals earlier this year about whether it planned to suspend work in Wisconsin.
“Our commitment from day one has been to establish a winning formula for Foxconn and for Wisconsin,” Dr. Louis Woo, special assistant to Foxconn founder and CEO Terry Gou said in a statement. “We continue to expand our presence around the state, create jobs, and deepen our partnerships while innovating and adapting to meet changing market needs. We’re investing in Wisconsin because we know manufacturing here is going to drive even greater success and growth for Foxconn and for the community.”
The Taiwan-based Foxconn in February recommitted to building what is known as a Generation 6 factory, which typically makes display screens for smaller devices like cellphones, tablets and televisions.
Foxconn on Monday announced dates for moving ahead with that project, including seeking bids in the coming weeks for utilities and construction work at the factory and related buildings.
" 'Wisconsin First’ has been our commitment from the start and it has been evidenced in our construction hiring to-date,” Woo said in the news release. “It will continue to be our priority as we lay the groundwork for a significant manufacturing presence in Racine County, Wisconsin.”
Melissa Baldauff, a spokeswoman for Gov. Tony Evers, released the following statement:
"The governor has always said that he wants to see jobs and opportunity created in Wisconsin, but that we must protect the people of Wisconsin and use their tax dollars responsibly.
"As the Foxconn project develops there will be ongoing conversations to ensure that Wisconsin taxpayers see a good return on their investment, but today’s announcement by Foxconn makes it clear that Gov. Evers is getting results.
"The governor will continue to make good on his promise to protect the taxpayers by making sure that Foxconn is transparent and accountable as they move forward."
The factory will be a part of a massive Foxconn campus located near Racine, close to the Wisconsin border with Illinois.
