CW Bearing USA, Inc. is advancing its strategic investment in North America through the ongoing expansion of its manufacturing and technology center near Apaseo El Grande, Guanajuato, Mexico. With the physical expansion of the facility completed in 2022, the company has spent the past three years steadily building out its equipment, capacity, and capabilities, culminating in a wave of new production and innovation over the past year.
This progress marks the successful execution of Phase 2 of CW Bearing’s Mexico expansion plan, with Phase 3 already on the horizon.
A Strengthening North American Footprint
The Mexico facility, originally opened in 2018, is now part of a broader North American network that includes:
- Manufacturing and sales operations in Northville, Michigan (opened in early 2017)
- A corporate office in Irvine, California
- Warehousing and distribution centers in Michigan, North Carolina, Texas, and Virginia
In 2022, CW Bearing doubled the size of its Mexico facility from 55,000 to 110,000 square feet, laying the foundation for a multi-year capability buildout that is now delivering tangible results.
“While the building expansion was completed earlier, we’ve spent the last three years focused on installing machines, optimizing processes, and preparing for long-term growth,” said Mauricio Ramirez Modesto, General Manager of CW Technology Mexico. “This approach will enable us to increase sales by 50–60% over the next three years with only a minor investment in additional space.”
New Capabilities Drive Performance
The most recent investments in the Mexico facility include:
- Full in-house ball nut (IBNA) manufacturing, from raw steel bar to final product
- Expanded production of four-point contact ball bearings and double-row angular contact ball bearings
- Enhanced deep groove bearing assembly with new equipment for additional features.
- A new metrology lab to support tighter quality control and product validation
This vertical integration enhances quality, shortens lead times, and opens the door to more customized solutions, particularly for customers seeking USMCA-compliant sourcing.
“Ball screws are a major part of our growth, and we’re focusing heavily on that side of the business,” said Jay Click, Vice President of North American Operations. “We’re also expanding into verticals like wheel hub bearings to meet evolving customer needs.”
Building Responsibly: Environmental and Customer-Led Innovation
In line with global sustainability goals, the facility now uses a new environmentally friendly coolant, which has resulted in a 36% reduction in coolant-related costs and a measurable reduction in hazardous waste.
“Most initiatives are client-led,” added Click, “and we’re seeing growing interest from customers who want their products manufactured through more carbon-neutral processes.”
CW Bearing is also exploring electrification of its vehicle fleet and other internal sustainability strategies to reduce its carbon footprint.
“Our main focus right now is understanding how our products and processes fit into the global effort to reduce carbon emissions,” Click said.
Serving Growth Sectors and Strengthening Communities
CW Bearing’s investment is benefiting not only customers but also the community. The operational expansion has already created new job opportunities and reinforced the company’s role as a long-term partner in regional development.
“It will primarily support growth in automotive sectors,” said Kyle Weyers, Director of Industrial Sales, “but it will also benefit any segment placing a high value on localization in the region, such as recreational vehicles, automation, and robotics.”
With shorter lead times, competitive pricing, and custom production capability, CW Bearing is increasingly positioned as a top-tier supplier for regional and global OEMs alike.
Looking Ahead: Phase 3 Planning
With much of the newly expanded space now active, CW Bearing is turning its attention to Phase 3 of development at the Mexico facility. Several customer programs are already in progress, and further equipment, talent, and process enhancements are expected in the near future.
“We’re focused on delivering precision where it’s needed most,” said Click. “Our customers want agile, sustainable, and localized solutions, and we’re ready to meet that demand.”
