From staff reports DUNCAN – Oklahoma’s strategic coast-to-coast location helped steer the nation’s largest bus and transportation services dealer to finalize its search for a new facility in southwest Oklahoma.
Model 1, an Indiana-based company, recently celebrated their grand opening in a newly built 10,000-square foot facility by the Duncan Area Economic Development Foundation, the Oklahoma Commerce Department wrote in a press release. The company first announced in July 2023 they would build the new service facility, which also serves as the national parts warehouse, in the Sooner State.
Future plans include the construction of a 40,000-square foot facility in Duncan’s Eastland Industrial Park and should be fully operational in 2026. In a 2023 press release, Model 1 estimated production would begin with 10 to 15 new jobs, but about eight months after the announcement the Oklahoma Commerce Department reported that the company has already hired at least 25 new employees. Another 100 employees should be added over the next two years.
“With over 40 years in business and a growing customer base, selecting each of our locations is vitally important,” said Tony Matijevich, president of Model 1. “Duncan, Oklahoma, is strategically located for coast-to-coast client needs, has a great workforce and training facilities, and has demonstrated a local commitment to our success.”
Model 1 specializes in retrofitting and customizing commercial vehicles to solve transportation issues. The Duncan location will serve products to its 22 existing locations across the United States. A company states that each site is strategically located to provide access to the nation’s largest commercial vehicle inventory, no matter where the customers are.
In addition, Model 1 represents more than 20 top commercial vehicles (bus, van, EV and other alternative fuel) manufacturers across the country. The Duncan location has already begun to perform pre-delivery inspections, used vehicle refurbishments, install graphics and commercial upfits. The new distribution facility will collaborate with local manufacturers and raw material suppliers.
“Model 1 considered multiple locations and we are proud they chose Duncan to meet their needs and support their success,” said Lyle Roggow, president and CEO of DAEDF. “We also want to extend thanks to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce for their lead generation support. DAEDF looks forward to working in partnership with Model 1, local independent service providers, and education partners like Red River Technology Center to benefit the company.”
The company was established in 1980 in California as Creative Transportation Systems and later known as Creative Bus Sales. Today, Model 1 is headquartered In Indianapolis and operates 23 dealer locations throughout the U.S. and employs more than 500 professionals.