Freedman Seating Company Invests $4 Million in Chicago Facility, Creating 50 New Jobs

Freedman Seating Company, a family-owned manufacturer with nearly a century of history, has announced a $4 million investment in its Chicago manufacturing facility in the Austin neighborhood. Supported by an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement, the project will create 50 new full-time jobs and retain 676 existing positions.

The investment will fund site improvements and new manufacturing equipment at the 650,000-square-foot plant, enhancing production of approximately 2,000 seats daily for bus, rail, marine, delivery truck, and commercial vehicle markets. “Programs like EDGE don’t give businesses a handout—they help level the playing field,” said Craig Freedman, CEO of Freedman Seating Company. “They allow us to invest, grow, and compete while creating opportunities where they’re needed most.”

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker highlighted the project’s impact, stating, “This investment proves Illinois is a global leader in manufacturing and job creation.” The initiative will boost operational efficiency and support local talent development, reinforcing Freedman Seating’s commitment to Chicago’s West Side and economic vitality in the region.