Tasus Corporation has been recognized as the 2024 Small Manufacturer of the Year by the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association (AAMA), marking a significant milestone for the company’s Florence, Alabama facility. The award highlights Tasus’ ongoing investment in innovation, workforce development, and regional economic growth.
Founded in 1989 and operating as part of Tsuchiya Co. Ltd., a global manufacturing group based in Japan, Tasus specializes in plastic molded components and labels for the automotive and transportation sectors. The Florence plant, opened in 2012, mirrors its sister facility in Bloomington, Indiana, and was strategically established to serve the fast-growing automotive industry in the Southeast United States.
Tasus supplies parts directly to automakers, such as Toyota (a Tier One supplier), and also works with companies that supply other major manufacturers (known as Tier Two suppliers). These components include products for interior and exterior applications in both conventional and electric vehicles.
The Florence facility employs approximately 145 team members and is a significant contributor to the local economy. Company leaders credit much of their success to their workforce and community partnerships. “When our employees succeed, we succeed and, in turn, the community and customers succeed,” said Jason Pace, operations manager at Tasus Alabama.
Tasus supports a range of employee benefits, including tuition assistance, adoption aid, first-time homebuyer programs, and 401(k) matching. The company has also partnered with Northwest Shoals Community College to bolster the region’s technical talent pipeline by supporting an associate degree and certificate program in injection molding technology.
In recent years, the Florence facility has adopted advanced automation and implemented a Kaizen work culture focused on continuous improvement. It has also launched environmental initiatives such as full-scale recycling programs and power-down strategies to reduce energy use.
Tasus’ quality performance has earned recognition from Toyota through multiple Certificates of Achievement. The company’s production metrics emphasize error prevention, on-time delivery, and ongoing innovation to expand its manufacturing capabilities and customer base.
Kristen McCaney, HR manager at Tasus Alabama, accepted the AAMA award alongside Pace in November. “The recognition is an incredible honor and a reflection of the smart work and dedication of our Alabama team,” said McCaney. “We are humbled and deeply grateful for this acknowledgement that inspires us to continue pursuing excellence and living our vision of ‘making it better.’”
Tasus plans to continue its steady growth strategy while reinforcing its commitment to community engagement, employee development, and advanced manufacturing in Alabama.
