Chilean Glass Company Coming to Naples

Author

Naples News Now
July 16, 2024

A woman with blonde hair and blue jacket.

Chilean glass processing company Dialum has finalized the acquisition of land in Ave Maria, Collier County, Florida, to build its first U.S. glass finishing factory. Here are the key details about this significant development:

Project Overview

  • Investment: $25 million

  • Facility Size: 100,000 square feet, with potential future expansion of 60,000 to 80,000 square feet

  • Location: Arthrex Commerce Park along Oil Well Road, just west of Ave Maria’s main entrance

  • Land Acquisition: 10 acres purchased for $2.5 million from Ave Maria Development LLP

  • Groundbreaking: Anticipated in the first quarter of 2025

  • Employment: Expected to create 80 to 100 jobs

Company Background

Dialum is a family-owned business founded in 1987 in Talcahuano, Chile. The company specializes in processing glass for commercial and residential applications, including:

  • Impact-resistant hurricane glass

  • Fireproof and bulletproof glass

  • Anti-slip and shower glass

  • Lacquered glass for walls and furniture

  • Privacy glass for conference rooms

Reasons for Choosing Ave Maria

  1. Strategic location between Miami and Tampa

  2. Proximity to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale for glass shipments

  3. Local workforce availability

  4. Presence of Ave Maria University

  5. Collier County’s monetary incentives through the Ave Maria Innovation Zone

Economic Incentives

The Collier County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved $1.5 million in grant incentives for Dialum. The incentive package includes:

  • $500,000 upon completion of the construction phase

  • $250,000 per year for the following four years

Impact and Significance

This project represents Dialum’s first U.S. manufacturing facility, with 80% of its customer base already in the United States. The new plant will serve as both a production facility and a showroom, allowing homeowners, contractors, and designers to view and order custom glass products.

The development is expected to contribute to the growth of Ave Maria and diversify Collier County’s economy. It also aligns with the county’s efforts to attract businesses and create high-wage jobs through innovation zones.

In conclusion, Dialum’s investment in Ave Maria marks a significant step in the company’s expansion into the U.S. market and represents a notable economic development for Collier County, potentially attracting further investment and job creation in the area.