Lear has announced plans to open a new automotive plant to produce seat covers in Gostivar, Macedonia, in summer 2015.

Serving all major European automotive manufacturers, Lear’s new facility will initially employ approximately 300 people, with an emphasis on leather and fabric cutting and sewing capability. Further expansion is expected, Lear said.

“With Lear’s continued success in vertically integrated automotive seating systems and components, we are pleased to begin operations at an interim site in Macedonia and plan new plant construction by mid-2016 in the area,” said Jeneanne Hanley, Lear’s Vice President for Global Trim and Craftsmanship.

“We appreciate the cooperation of all involved as Lear launches its first facility in Macedonia.”

With the completion in January 2015 of the acquisition of Eagle Ottawa, Lear Corporation says it is the world’s leading supplier of premium automotive leather.

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