Curbtender expands operations with factory in Charles City

By Bob Steenson, bsteenson@charlescitypress.com

A Cedar Falls truck manufacturer has announced the purchase of a former Winnebago assembly building in Charles City, and startup of a production center that is expected to employ 20 people.

Curbtender, a manufacturer of refuse collection trucks, announced the acquisition of the factory in Charles City on Wednesday. The company’s new facility, located at 1200 11th St., “will enable Curbtender to expand its production of front-loading garbage trucks to meet growing market demand,” according to information from the company.

“Curbtender plans to bring 20 new jobs to Charles City in the next few months, reinforcing its dedication to creating opportunities for rural communities,” the company said. “Renovations and equipment installations are expected to begin immediately, with production slated to start in March 2025.”

“The purchase of this factory is an important step forward for Curbtender,” said Kevin Watje, company CEO. “Charles City offers an ideal location for our expansion, and this facility will play a key role in helping us scale our operations to keep pace with customer needs.”

Curbtender has seen 500% revenue growth since 2018, the company said, and has already expanded operations to Gothenburg, Nebraska, in 2020, and Easley, South Carolina, in 2021.

“This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone in Curbtender’s continued growth,” the company announced, saying that the Charles City facility will allow the company to “increase production capacity, enhance efficiency and better serve its customers nationwide.”

The company manufactures a wide range of waste collection vehicles, including specialty equipment such as street sweepers and leaf vacuum trucks.

“Known for its innovative and durable waste collection vehicles, Curbtender is committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality while supporting the economic development of Midwest communities,” the company said in its announcement.

“Curbtender has been a trusted name in refuse truck manufacturing for over 50 years, focused on producing high-performance equipment with a lower total cost of ownership,” it said. “The company remains focused on driving innovation and supporting sustainable waste management solutions.”

Winnebago Industries had announced in July that it was closing its Class B motorhome manufacturing facility in Charles City to concentrate manufacturing of the van-based recreational vehicles in Lake Mills.

The notice, which was effective Sept. 1, impacted 36 workers.

Winnebago continues to operate its larger Charles City Hardwoods facility just across the street from the building that has been sold to Curbtender in the city’s Southwest Development Park.

Curbtender said persons interested in employment opportunities should go to www.curbtender.com/careers/