Retrofitting existing spaces offers cost, speed and sustainability benefits for advanced manufacturers.
As advanced manufacturing companies expand and innovate, they must decide whether to build new facilities or renovate existing ones. Rockford, a leader in manufacturing space retrofits, knows that renovation offers a smarter, faster and more sustainable solution — especially for specialized spaces like dryrooms and cleanrooms.
“Renovating an existing space offers significant cost savings and gets manufacturers up and running more quickly,” said Josh Rewa, vice president of industrial construction at Rockford. “We’ve seen clients realize considerable benefits by optimizing existing facilities rather than building new from the ground up.”
Cost Efficiency and Speed to Market
Cost is a major factor in deciding between renovation and new construction. New builds involve substantial expenses, including land acquisition, regulatory approvals and escalating material costs. Renovating existing facilities can reduce these costs, allowing companies to focus resources on specialized fit-outs needed for advanced manufacturing.
“By renovating, companies can allocate their budget more effectively,” Rewa said. “This approach allows them to achieve their operational goals without the financial burden of a new build.”
Renovation projects can often be completed more quickly than new construction, enabling companies to respond rapidly to market demands. "Time is of the essence," Rewa said. "The faster we complete a renovation, the sooner our clients can capitalize on new opportunities."
A Sustainable Choice
Sustainability is a core value for many manufacturers, making renovation an attractive option. Retrofitting existing structures minimizes environmental impact by reducing waste, limiting carbon emissions and contributing to a circular economy.
“By renovating, companies can allocate their budget more effectively,” Rewa said. “This approach allows them to achieve their operational goals without the financial burden of a new build.”
“Retrofitting existing spaces supports a more sustainable approach,” Rewa said. “At Rockford, we integrate sustainable practices into our renovations, using energy-efficient materials and efficient building techniques.”
Leveraging Strategic Locations
Existing manufacturing facilities often benefit from locations near supply chains, transportation hubs and skilled labor pools. Renovating these locations allows companies to maintain these advantages while upgrading their capabilities. Existing infrastructure — like utilities and service connections — can also be repurposed or enhanced.
“Maintaining a facility in a strategic location is a huge benefit,” Rewa said. “Our team specializes in adapting infrastructure to meet advanced manufacturing needs, from upgrading electrical systems to retrofitting air quality controls.”
Successful Renovation Strategies
Rockford begins each project with a comprehensive assessment of the facility’s structural integrity, utility capacity and suitability for advanced manufacturing. This groundwork informs a tailored renovation plan.
“We customize each project to the client’s needs,” Rewa said. “Advanced manufacturing demands precision, and we ensure that spaces like dry rooms and clean rooms meet exacting standards.”
Equally critical is collaboration and communication throughout the renovation process. “Open communication is key,” Rewa said. “We work closely with our clients to ensure the renovation stays on track and delivers the results they expect.”
Rockford’s Proven Expertise
Renovating instead of building new offers advanced manufacturers significant benefits in cost, speed, sustainability and strategic positioning. With hundreds of millions of dollars in successful projects, Rockford has established itself as a leader in adapting existing spaces for advanced manufacturing.
“Our track record speaks for itself,” Rewa said. “We help companies transform facilities into state-of-the-art environments, allowing them to stay competitive and agile in a fast-changing market.”
