Irvine-based Gateway Inc. announced Thursday the opening of a manufacturing plant in Nashville as part of its bid to boost sales from direct buyers and businesses.
The company, which expects the new site to employ upward of 300 people in the first year, said the plant will increase its “responsiveness” to customers who want to configure computers before they buy.
Gateway said the plant works in tandem with a new customer support center in North Sioux City, S.D., to improve customer satisfaction.
The company will build desktops, notebooks and servers that target customers who want to buy directly over the phone or via the Web. It’s also aimed at businesses and governments, or the “professional” sector.
Gateway has been working to revive sales for its direct and professional business units, which have lagged the retail business.
