Governor Kelly Announces North America’s Largest Roofing Manufacturer to Invest More than $300M; Create More than 130 Jobs in Newton

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that GAF, a Standard Industries company and North America’s largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, will invest more than $300 million in Newton by constructing a new shingle plant. The estimated 275,000-square-foot facility will create more than 130 high-skilled manufacturing jobs in management, engineering, and operations.

“GAF’s expansion into Kansas once again showcases our status as a national leader in advanced manufacturing,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The company’s innovative production methods and proven track record of community involvement make it an ideal partner for Newton and the entire state.” 

GAF has more than 4,800 employees and operates in 30 locations across the U.S. producing commercial and residential roofing and waterproofing products and services for customers throughout North America. The Kansas Logistics Parks in Newton will be the company’s first location in Kansas.  

With one in four homes in the United States protected by a GAF roof, this investment enables the company to add residential roofing manufacturing capacity and enhance best-in-class service to customers nationwide. 

Construction is expected to begin in June 2024, with production anticipated to begin in 2027. The company expects to reach full production capacity by mid-2029. 

“Diversifying our state economy has been a focus of the Kelly-Toland Administration since Day One,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The career opportunities this will provide for Kansans right now – and for future generations – will help us continue our unprecedented economic growth by keeping more of our young talent right here at home.” 

Newton and Harvey County’s talented workforce, location relative to other GAF operations, and proximity to major highways and railways made the investment ideal for the company. 

“This new facility allows us to meet growing customer demand for our market-leading roofing products and expands our ability to innovate as we look to the future,” GAF CEO John Altmeyer said. “We are excited to work with city and state officials throughout this process to build a state-of-the-art factory that will generate new, good-paying jobs and support the greater Newton area through meaningful community involvement.”  

GAF Community Matters, the company’s social impact initiative, focuses on making a positive difference as neighbors and partners in the community by leveraging roofing expertise, resources, and products to help build resilient communities. 

“We are thrilled to welcome GAF and the opportunities they are bringing to our community,” Newton Mayor Rod Kreie said. “The greater Newton area offers a strong pipeline of talent, and we’re excited about the significant economic and community impact GAF’s expansion will bring. GAF has been an excellent partner throughout the process, and we thank all those who played a role in helping bring this opportunity to Newton.”