A year and a half after announcing plans to establish its U.S. headquarters in central Montana, German manufacturing firm VACOM has officially launched the first phase of operations in Lewistown.
State and local leaders gathered Friday for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at VACOM’s newly outfitted facility on the east side of town—marking the start of what the company hopes will become a long-term partnership with the Fergus County community. The family-owned company, based in Thuringia, Germany, specializes in precision vacuum components and high-tech cleaning solutions used in products ranging from smartphones to anti-reflective eyewear to potato chip packaging.
“This is about building something for the future,” said CEO Jens Bergner, addressing attendees at the opening event. “We see Lewistown and Montana as a place where our company can grow and contribute meaningfully.”
VACOM’s initial operation in Lewistown focuses on precision cleaning of high-tech parts—both its own and those from other companies. Using a newly installed cleanroom and specialized equipment in a renovated machine shop, the team has already processed its first batch of parts, which can range from tiny screws to footlong metal pieces. The second building on the property, also acquired by VACOM, will eventually house logistics and light production.
The company currently employs five people in Lewistown, with plans to expand to 50 employees by 2027.
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte toured the facility Friday, praising VACOM’s investment as a reflection of the state’s pro-business climate.
“We need to diversify our economy to make sure our kids and grandkids can pursue high-wage jobs right here in Montana,” Gianforte said. “VACOM’s doing that, and it’s great to be here celebrating with them.”
CEO Bergner noted that VACOM had intentionally targeted Republican-led states when scouting locations, citing more favorable business environments. However, he also cautioned that increasing tariff tensions between the U.S. and European Union could pose challenges.
“I stand for international business, and I believe we can grow together,” Bergner said, calling for more stability in global trade.
Beyond the policy considerations, company leaders emphasized the importance of community and culture in their site selection. VACOM officials have said they were drawn to Lewistown in part because of the region’s striking similarities to their native Thuringia—in both landscape and local values.
by: Montana Newsroom staff
