XL Specialized Trailers plans $7 million factory expansion

Marcia Doyle Headshot
Updated Dec 1, 2020

Man working on machinery, XL specialized trailers

XL Specialized Trailers is planning a $6 to $7 million expansion to its headquarters in Manchester, Iowa, an addition it says will increase production capacity by more than 30 percent.

Construction is expected to start by early next year and will add roughly 55,000 square feet; it is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2021.

The company says the expansion also will allow it to add 65 new jobs.

“Increasing our space and adding more team members positions us to serve our customers better than ever before,” says Stuart Sleper, president and CEO. “We will be well positioned for growth in the market and reduce lead times on our products.”

A current product: XL Specialized Trailers XL 70 HDG.A current product: XL Specialized Trailers XL 70 HDG.

XL says its 2019 record sales year — plus a current backlog and strong order activity –has allowed it to power through the Covid-19 pandemic despite market reports of a 45 percent drop in the low-bed trailer industry in 2020.

“We’re fortunate to have a diversified portfolio in the industries we serve with some sectors performing better than others,” says Sleper. “We also are fortunate to have the best dealership network in the industry and a loyal customer following. When the economy bounces back, we’ll be able to take advantage of our expansion in production capacity.”