American Millwork & Cabinetry expanding in Emmaus

American Millwork & Cabinetry is nearing completion on a major expansion in Emmaus. 

The company, owned by George Reitz, has been operating at the site of a former indoor fish farm in Emmaus since 2006 after it moved from its original 8,000-square-foot location in Coopersburg. 

Reitz said that 17 years ago, he thought the roughly 68,000 square feet of space at 840 Broad Street would be more than enough to accommodate the company’s growth. He had actually bought more space than he needed, leasing extra space to other manufacturers. 

“Originally our intent was to use 15,000 square feet but quickly ascertained that 30,000 square foot was better suited for our then growth,” said Reitz.  

Over the years as AMC needed more space, he would simply not renew the leases of his tenants and expand his own footprint. It currently takes up 75,000 square feet of space after a smaller addition several years ago. 

But he said aggressive growth in new business areas such as acoustic paneling and ceiling tiles and its Corian (solid surface) department, which services area health care providers.  

“We recognized a niche in the market and see it as a growth opportunity,” Reitz said.  

The new 20,000-square-foot addition will give AMC room to expand these divisions as well as providing more space for the company’s traditional cabinetry work. 

The expansion will also lead to new hires. Reitz said he expects to hire between 35 to 40 people as the new divisions grow.