3/17/2015

GAF opts to keep headquarters in New Jersey

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By Chris Sweeney Follow Author

WAYNE, N.J.—GAF Materials Corp. moved its headquarters to another location in the state of New Jersey in January after spending more than 40 years in Wayne.

The roofing manufacturer will consolidate its 11-building campus into one building located in Parsippany, about 14 miles from its current headquarters, after conducting an extensive search to explore relocation possibilities.

Its former headquarters in Wayne spanned a 99-acre campus, compared to a single 330,000-sq.ft. facility that will house all of the firm's applications on three floors.

“There are a tremendous number of talented, educated and experienced people right here in New Jersey,” President and CEO Bob Tafaro said in a statement. “Whether we're looking for scientists, business people or IT technicians, the talent pool and range of skills available in this state is second to none.”

GAF said it has made a significant investment in upgrading the new building but declined to release an exact figure, using its own thermoplastic polyolefin roofing membrane. The refurbished building brings GAF's departments and functions under one roof to foster greater collaboration and teamwork and improve operating efficiency, the firm said.

The new building was renovated completely, gutted down to steel and concrete and refurbished to GAF's liking. The firm said it houses research and development functions along with executive offices and other amenities for its employees—such as a café and fitness center.

GAF said it also has spent $350 million in capital improvements, including several new manufacturing plants for its commercial roofing products. The firm employs more than 3,000 nationwide, including more than 500 at its headquarters.

GAF produces steep-slope and commercial roofing systems with facilities in Statesboro, Ga.; Mount Vernon, Ind.; Gainesville Texas; and Cedar City, Utah.