Last week, Gibson opened the doors of its world-renowned acoustic guitar facility in Bozeman, MT to celebrate the completion of a factory expansion which doubled the size of the facility, which was originally built in 1988. It says this demand-driven expansion doubles the size of its machine shop and acoustic factory

While production of Gibson Acoustics started in Kalamazoo, MI and moved to Nashville, TN for a period, Bozeman was identified as an ideal location for the new acoustic facility after Gibson purchased the Montana-based Flatiron Mandolin company in 1987. The relatively stable and dry climate in Bozeman is advantageous in building acoustic guitars, which can be greatly affected by swings in temperature and humidity. The early days in Montana marked the rebirth of Gibson’s flat-top guitars in the eyes and ears of artist, dealers, and fans.

To meet the booming demand for guitars, Gibson invested in construction to double the size of the acoustic craftory. With more machine shop and manufacturing space, expanded Gibson Acoustic Custom Shop capabilities, and a new artist showroom, the modernized facility enables Gibson to increase production of its acoustic guitar models (J-45, Hummingbird, Dove, SJ-200, and more) and expand innovative offerings such as the new Gibson Generation Collection, without compromising on conditions of quality, the company says.

“Gibson acoustic guitars have earned their iconic status over many generations and across many genres of music,” says James ‘JC’ Curleigh, president and CEO of Gibson Brands. “This iconic status has turned into exceptional demand over the past few years. We recognized that we had an opportunity and an obligation to find a way to make more guitars by expanding the legendary Gibson Acoustic Craftory right here in Bozeman, Montana. We are proud of the expansion and excited for the future.”

Gibson global leadership and the local Gibson Bozeman teams were on hand with local Montana business leaders and ambassadors, and Gibson's skilled artisans who create its acoustic guitar collections to view the new craftory. With he expansion, Gibson will be adding up to 100-plus job opportunities and recruiting top talent on the local and national level. Gibson Acoustic in Bozeman currently employs 230 people.

For more information, go to www.gibson.com.