GKN Aerospace completes sale of St. Louis facility to Boeing

Boeing has closed a deal with GKN Aerospace St. Louis and its parent company, Melrose Industries, to continue the manufacturing of critical components that support the U.S. government and its allies.

The agreement between Boeing and GKN immediately transitions the St. Louis, Missouri site’s capabilities and operations in support of the F/A-18 and F-15 programs to Boeing. Additionally, nearly the entire GKN St. Louis workforce – approximately 550 people – have been hired by Boeing.

“Boeing is growing across the region with a healthy backlog of current programs while also seeking future opportunities,” said Steve Parker, senior vice president & chief operating officer of Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “This agreement allows us to not only deliver for our customers, but also gives the highly skilled GKN workforce the opportunity to bring their immense talents to bear in support of the warfighter and the St. Louis defense and aerospace industry. This is a win-win-win for those employees, Boeing, and the broader Saint Louis community.”

Financial details will not be disclosed in accordance with the terms of the transaction.

GKN Aerospace originally purchased the site from Boeing in 2001, and over recent months it has exclusively manufactured aerostructures for them. Last year, the companies began discussing the potential to return the site to Boeing to avoid closure of the facility.