November 18, 2022 I Opening
Gibson Expands Acoustic Facility in Bozeman, Montana
The Gibson team cuts the ribbon on the new facility.
Gibson has completed the expansion of its acoustic “craftory” in Bozeman, Montana. In a company statement, the expansion of the acoustic facility let Gibson continue its legacy of artisanship music partnerships and product innovations. Recently, Gibson has been in investment expansion mode and prioritizing the acoustic facility and its skilled artisans in Bozeman who create the acoustic guitar collections.
At the new facility, Gibson carries on a tradition of acoustic instruments that date back to the 1890s. While production of Gibson Acoustics started in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and moved to Nashville, Tennessee, for a period, Bozeman was identified as an ideal location for the new acoustic facility after Gibson purchased the Montana-based Flatiron Mandolin company in 1987. The relatively stable and dry climate in Bozeman is advantageous for building acoustic guitars, which can be greatly affected by swings in temperature and humidity. The early days in Montana marked the rebirth of Gibson’s flat-top guitars.
To meet the demand for the guitars, Gibson invested in construction to double the size of the acoustic “craftory.” With more machine shop and manufacturing space, expanded Gibson Acoustic Custom Shop capabilities, and a new artist showroom, Gibson said in a statement that the facility enables the company to increase production of its acoustic guitar models and expand its offerings, such as the new Gibson Generation Collection, without compromising on quality.
“Gibson acoustic guitars have earned their iconic status over many generations and across many genres of music,” said James “JC” Curleigh, president and CEO of Gibson Brands. “This iconic status has turned into exceptional demand over the past few years. We recognized that we had an opportunity and an obligation to find a way to make more guitars by expanding the legendary Gibson Acoustic Craftory right here in Bozeman, Montana. We are proud of the expansion and excited for the future.”
