Japanese manufacturer to expand Peru, Ill., plant

SPRINGFIELD — A Japanese manufacturer says it will expand its north-central Illinois factory, which makes parts and trim for the automotive industry.

Gov. Pat Quinn on Monday announced that Eakas Corp. will invest $35 million to expand its Peru facility, which will create 25 new Illinois jobs. Quinn is currently traveling in China.

The company will add 280,000 square feet to the plant and install a new plating line.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is giving the village of Peru a $675,000 grant to help make infrastructure improvements to support the expanded plant.

The state also will give the company a $50,000 grant through the Illinois Jobs Now! capital program and administer a $334,250 package of tax credits spread over 10 years.