Mercedes-Benz celebrates the 20th anniversary of the decision to build its first production plant outside of Germany in Tuscaloosa.

On this occasion, Jason Hoff, President and CEO of the Mercedes-Benz Tuscaloosa plant (Mercedes-Benz U.S. International – MBUSI) took much pleasure in welcoming a very special colleague: Andreas Renschler, member of the Daimler board of management responsible for Manufacturing and Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars & Mercedes-Benz Vans. He was instrumental in the decision and all subsequent efforts which led to the foundation of MBUSI and the start of manufacturing operations at the Mercedes-Benz Tuscaloosa plant in 1997. Renschler had been appointed leader of the Mercedes-Benz 'Multi-Purpose Vehicle' (the later M-Class) project in 1993 and later became MBUSI's first President and CEO until 1999.

Commemorating the 1993 decision for Tuscaloosa, Renschler said: "Back then, our decision for Tuscaloosa triggered one of the most important developments in our recent corporate history. As the first full-production plant outside of Germany, it represents a proud story of success for Mercedes-Benz."

Renschler continued: "The part of my career which I spent here in Tuscaloosa has been one of my greatest professional as well as personal experiences, and I am proud to say it still feels a lot like coming home every time I am here. And what has made me even more proud is the incredible development this plant has taken over the years. One thing has not changed over the years, however: MBUSI is a great team with great passion for great products."

Referring to next years' launch of the new-generation C-Class and another all-new Mercedes-Benz SUV in 2015, Renschler added: "I am counting on this team to continue this path of success – we have two important products in the pipeline within the next two years, which will again be drivers for the success of Mercedes-Benz."

Jason Hoff commented: “Over the years, we’ve worked hand-in-hand with colleagues in Germany to accomplish our goals. Today, MBUSI Team Members are now supporting other plants with training and support and our plant’s contributions to Mercedes-Benz are recognized by our colleagues around the world. The positive way our plant is viewed is a direct result of our Team Members. Their dedication and commitment to MBUSI has made us successful during our 20 years of operations, and I appreciate their focus on doing what we do best -- building great vehicles and working together as a Team.”