ORLANDO, FL (BRAIN) — Recumbent maker Catrike said it has recently invested $150,000 in its production facility as it gears up for growth in 2014.
Catrike is adding an automatic CNC bender, a Holland Mechanics tire fitter and cassette station, a frame washing station and a second heat treatment oven. The improvements "open the door to doubling production," company founder Paulo Camasmie said.
In addition to the new production equipment, Catrike is adding more staff to its assmebly area. The company also has added computer tablets throughout its production area. The tablets will run a proprietary app that collects production metrics and coordinates daily production goals and an equipment maintenance schedule.
Camasmie said the brand's new folding Catrike recumbent was well received at last month's Interbike expo.
"We were pleasantly surprised (with) how many dealers were familiar with Catrikes and were able to sign with some amazing (retailers) during the show. Interbike was very welcoming and we love the show," he said.
Catrike is preparing for a 37 percent growth in 2014, he said.