Manufacturer Sues Automation Company Over Troubled Factory Overhaul

A leading manufacturer of windows and doors is suing a provider of industrial automation systems for allegedly failing to deliver the equipment needed for a multi-million dollar factory overhaul.

Andersen Corp., the Minnesota Star Tribune reports, reached an agreement five years ago with ATS Corp., under which it would build automated equipment for an Andersen factory in Iowa.

Andersen said that it poured millions into the Dubuque facility to produce more of its E-Series windows, a high-end line aimed at the custom homebuilding market.

But ATS, Andersen argued in a complaint filed in Washington County, Minn., court, missed its deadlines, demanded millions in additional payments, and halted work on the project altogether. Its work, the filing continued, also suffered from design and quality control issues, as well as “poor project management.”

The equipment, in total, was 860 days late, according to the suit.

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Andersen sued ATS for breach of contract, and said that the delay has resulted in unspecific financial damages and postponed the launch of its new E-Series product. ATS told the paper in a statement that it would defend itself through “appropriate channels,” and would not make further comments on the matter.

The Ontario-based company, the Star Tribune noted, has also been sued by two other major manufacturers in recent months over assembly systems for electric vehicle batteries and components: ATS and General Motors settled a lawsuit filed by the automaker, but another complaint, filed by Illinois Tool Works, remains pending.

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