Kobay South Breaks Ground on Expansion in Oxford, Creating New Jobs

Adds 60,000 square feet of manufacturing space and increases heavy stamping capacity to support continued growth

Thursday, April 30^th, 2026

Photos provided by the City of Oxford

Oxford, Ala. — Kobay South, a leading supplier of precision metal stampings and complex welded seating structures, today broke ground on a major expansion of its Oxford facility. The project represents a substantial investment in its Oxford operations, adding 60,000 square feet of new manufacturing space and creating 50 new jobs.

The expansion will enhance Kobay South’s production capabilities, including increased heavy stamping capacity up to 2,500 tons, and additional support for new and existing automotive programs. The project reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to the region and its strategic position within the Southeast’s growing automotive manufacturing corridor.

“This expansion reflects our long-term commitment to the region and the strength of our team here in Alabama,” said Gavin Galansky, President of Kobay South. “It allows us to better support our customers, grow our capabilities, and continue building a skilled workforce for the future.”

In addition to expanding operations, Kobay South continues to invest in workforce development through partnerships with programs such as the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) and the Consortium of Machining Education and Training (CoMeT) at Gadsden State Community College. These initiatives help develop skilled talent and create pathways into advanced manufacturing careers.

“Kobay South represents the kind of company that builds long-term value in a community,” said Larry Deason, Calhoun County Economic Development Council Board Chairman. “Their continued investment, combined with the addition of new jobs, strengthens our workforce and reinforces the relationships that support sustained growth in our industrial sector.”

The expansion marks a significant milestone as Kobay South approaches a decade of operations in Oxford. Since opening in 2016, the company has grown into a trusted manufacturing partner supporting major vehicle programs across North America, with a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and disciplined production.

City of Oxford Mayor Alton Craft said, “Kobay South has been a valued member of our industrial community for years, and this investment reinforces their confidence in our workforce and our city. We’re proud to support their expansion and the new opportunities it will create for our residents.”

Drawing on the legacy of Enstel Manufacturing and Kobay in Toronto, together with Kobay’s origins in Japan, the company brings decades of experience within the Japanese automotive supply chain. Its expertise includes precision metal stampings, complex MIG and laser-welded assemblies, and tube bending and fabrication—supporting a wide range of automotive programs across North America.

Construction on the expansion is now underway, with the new facility expected to support continued growth and production in the coming years.

About Kobay South

Kobay South is a leading supplier of precision metal stampings and complex welded seating structures. Located in Oxford, Alabama, the company provides engineering support, process development, and high-quality production for a range of automotive programs across North America.

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