$20 million investment expected to create 50 new jobs
COLUMBIA, S.C. – INVISTA will grow its Performance Surfaces & Materials business at its Camden production facility to better serve its carpet mill customer base located throughout the U.S., specifically in the southeast region. The $20 million investment is expected to create about 50 new jobs in Camden by the first part of 2014.
“An investment of this size will further strengthen INVISTA Camden’s position as the preferred supplier of nylon 6,6 carpet fibers for residential and commercial end products,” said Paul Liddle, Camden site manager for INVISTA. “Our strong and skilled employment base of more than 700, and continued commitment to environmental, health and safety excellence have positioned our site well for this investment.”
Camden’s proximity to mill customers in the southeast U.S. was also a key factor in the decision to expand the facility’s production. The company said customers are expected to benefit from reduced shipping time, increased order flexibility, reduced lead-time for orders, as well as new product offerings including the company’s TruBlend™ fiber product, which contains a total of 30 percent pre- and post-consumer recycled content.
“Today’s announcement from INVISTA is another win for one of our state’s rural areas. It is always exciting when one of our state’s existing businesses chooses to grow in South Carolina. We celebrate INVISTA’s decision to invest $20 million and create 50 new jobs,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.
The expansion includes new equipment and reconfiguration of existing equipment. Improvements will begin in early 2013 and are expected to be completed in the first part of 2014. New employment opportunities will be phased in during the course of the expansion.
“We continue to see manufacturers making investments across the state. Today’s announcement from INVISTA further strengthens South Carolina’s manufacturing sector, and brings jobs that will have positive impact to Kershaw County,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.
Since January 2011, South Carolina has recruited more than $7 billion in capital investment and more than 17,000 jobs in the manufacturing sector.
“INVISTA is a strong community member and partner in the economic success of Kershaw County,” said Kershaw County Chairman Gene Wise. “We are extremely pleased they chose to expand their Kershaw County operation. This growth is a testament to the quality workforce and supportive business environment in Kershaw County.”
“Delivering increased value and improving customer service are two key elements of this investment,” added Liddle. “This investment is a direct reflection of the more than 700 hardworking employees who create value for our customers, and we’re pleased to be able to add more members to the team. Additionally, we appreciate support of Kershaw County and the South Carolina Department of Commerce for this capital expansion.”
The company expects to begin the hiring process for the new positions in the first quarter of 2013. Job opportunities will be posted online at www.INVISTAcareers.com for interested candidates.
INVISTA’s Camden, S.C. manufacturing site began operations in 1950. Located on approximately 1,100 acres, the facility’s primary products include STAINMASTER® carpet fiber, ANTRON® carpet fiber and carpet fiber used in the automotive industry.
INVISTA is one of the world’s largest integrated producers of polymers and fibers, primarily for nylon, spandex and polyester applications. With a business presence in over 20 countries, INVISTA’s global businesses deliver exceptional value for their customers through technology innovations, market insights and a powerful portfolio of global trademarks including: ADI-PURE®, ANTRON®, AVORA®, C12™, COMFOREL®, COOLMAX®, CORDURA®, CORFREE®, DACRON®, DBE®, DYTEK®, FRESHFX®, LYCRA®, PERFORMA™, POLARGUARD®, POLYSHIELD®, POLYCLEAR®, SOLARMAX®, STAINMASTER®, SUPPLEX®, SUPRIVA™, TACTEL®, TACTESSE®, TERATE®, TERATHANE®, THERMOLITE® and TORZEN™. For more information, visit www.INVISTA.com.