Blue Bird Corporation (Nasdaq: BLBD), a leader in electric and low-emission school buses, is celebrating the expansion of Micro Bird’s manufacturing footprint into the United States. Micro Bird, a 50/50 joint venture between Blue Bird Corporation and Girardin, has announced its acquisition of the Nova Bus facility in Plattsburgh, New York, marking a pivotal step in its growth strategy. The new facility will focus on producing small and midsize buses, with operations slated to commence by mid-2025.
The expansion will enable Micro Bird to significantly increase its production capacity, doubling output to meet the rising demand for its diverse range of vehicles, including school buses, school activity buses, multi-purpose vehicles, and commercial buses. This investment positions Micro Bird to further strengthen its leadership in the North American bus industry.
Creating Jobs and Boosting the Local Economy
Micro Bird’s move to Plattsburgh will generate substantial economic benefits, including the creation of over 350 full-time jobs within the next several years. This development is backed by robust state-level support. Empire State Development has allocated nearly $10 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits, alongside a $2.5 million capital grant from the North Country Regional Economic Development Council.
“We are thrilled to expand our leadership in Type A small and midsize buses with Micro Bird’s U.S. manufacturing capacity expansion in the great state of New York,” said Phil Horlock, President and CEO of Blue Bird Corporation. “Once fully operational, the new facility will double our Micro Bird production capacity and represents a significant step in our long-term profitable growth journey.”
Eric Boulé, President and CEO of Micro Bird, echoed these sentiments. “We are very excited to begin this new chapter by expanding our operations in Plattsburgh and by creating high-quality job opportunities for our future colleagues,” he said. “This investment confirms Micro Bird’s position as a leading manufacturer in the North American bus industry. We are also grateful for the strong cooperation and support from the Nova Bus leadership team and representatives from the state of New York, Clinton County, and the Town of Plattsburgh.”
Ensuring a Smooth Transition
To maintain operational excellence, Micro Bird plans to progressively hire skilled and experienced employees currently working at the Nova Bus Plattsburgh facility. This approach not only ensures continuity but also honors the culture of quality and professionalism established by Nova Bus.
Collaboration between Micro Bird and Nova Bus has been seamless, laying the groundwork for a smooth transition. Site preparations will begin in January 2025, including hiring new employees. Production is set to start in the summer of 2025, aligning with the company’s strategic objectives to support sustained growth.
Advancing Leadership in Bus Manufacturing
The new facility underscores Micro Bird’s commitment to innovation and leadership in the bus manufacturing sector. By expanding in Plattsburgh, the company is better positioned to address the increasing demand for environmentally friendly and reliable transportation solutions across North America.
This development is a testament to Blue Bird and Micro Bird’s dedication to sustainable growth, innovation, and community engagement. As the partnership continues to evolve, the Plattsburgh facility is poised to become a cornerstone of their operations, driving long-term success and positive economic impact in the region.
The expansion reflects Blue Bird and Micro Bird’s shared vision for a future where advanced, efficient, and sustainable transportation solutions play a central role in shaping communities across North America.
