Scores of noted dignitaries and local officials were on hand Wednesday in Murray, when Governor Andy Beshear and founder Martin Cox unveiled the arrival of Hollobus Technologies — set to go inside the two-year vacancy of Briggs & Stratton at 110 Main Street.
A Canadian subsidiary of Superior Tray Systems, Cox and his company have promised a $2.25 million investment with the creation of 150 new jobs for west Kentucky, paying on average $22/hour with benefits addressed.
A vision of Cox’s for years, the “Hollobus” system serves as a sincere alternative to electrical cabling for major industrial projects — capable of withstanding harsh weather elements. A main office will be attached to primary manufacturing and research/development nodes, with hopes of bringing veteran experience and college graduates into the fold together.
Used in major industrial projects such as the city of Boston’s water treatment facility, the Vancouver International Airport rapid-transit line and numerous high-rises in New York City, Cox specifically noted that electrical engineering students will play a critical role in the innovative process.
Beshear lauded the company’s trust in Murray and the Kentucky economy, which continues to push toward high-tech, futuristic opportunities.
Located right on the outskirts of Murray’s downtown, the facility is nestled directly along a railway served by both CSX and KWT. And over time, the company could be enticing to Calloway Countians, students and commuters — especially discharged and retired veterans from Fort Campbell — seeking employment in the electrical industrial sector.
Beshear called it “a good day for Murray.”
On August 15, 2019, officials connected to the city of Murray received tough news — when Briggs & Stratton representatives announced their decision to close up shop in this location.
The world’s largest small-engine producer had been a fixture in Calloway County since 1985. Its 600-plus jobs provided a way of life for local and regional machinists, high school graduates and college degree aspirants, and its relationship with Murray State University kept a pipeline of talent in west Kentucky.
Murray Mayor Bob Rogers said he and many other officials had been in contact with state authorities before, during and after Briggs & Stratton’s decision about steps in keeping, then replacing, the long-revered company.
Beshear attested it was one of the first discussions to come across his governing desk.
And now, the building is empty no more.
