When Greatbatch Inc. officials dedicated a new $17.5 million manufacturing facility this morning, they hinted that another investment might be in the works.

But when pressed for details, they clammed up.

Thomas Hook, Greatbatch Inc.’s president and CEO, built expectations when talking about the company’s growth strategy that includes building the core business, making targeted acquisitions and creating new medical devices.

Greatbatch Medical, a subsidiary of Greatbatch Inc., designs and manufactures orthopedic instruments and devices. Customers include Biomet, Zimmer, DePuy Synthes, Stryker and Medtronic.

“We look forward to expanding here in the near future, and you’ll hear more about that soon,” Hook said under a white tent in front of the new building at 4545 Kroemer Road.

Mauricio Arellano, Greatbatch Medical’s president, fanned the flames of his boss’s remarks.

“Our strategy is about growth, so more to come,” he said with a smile.

The 80,000-square-foot facility – which was announced in January 2011 – was built for growth, officials said. Greatbatch Medical employs 120 now and plans to create about 75 new jobs with the operation’s move from 40,000 square feet of leased space in Columbia City.

For more on this story, see Tuesday’s print edition of The Journal Gazette or visit www.journalgazette.net after 3 a.m. Tuesday.

sslater@jg.net