Naturally Advanced Technologies Inc. (NAT), which produces and markets CRAiLAR Flax Fiber, was recently granted $263,500 in incentives from Florence County, South Carolina to be used for its manufacturing and production in the region.
NAT is opening a facility in the 143,500 square foot former Delta Mills Cypress plant on Old River Road in Pamplico, South Carolina. Commissioning of the assembled equipment will commence December 17. An initial USD $8 million investment creating 25 jobs is part of the Company's plans there. Flax, grown as a winter crop in Florence and surrounding counties, will be processed out of the new facility beginning December 28, 2012.
"We are thrilled about our progress in Florence County and look forward to having a fully operating facility there this December," said Ken Barker, CEO of NAT. "The region has been exemplary to deal with from state to county and we are thankful to Florence for honoring its commitment to developing the business in South Carolina." NAT has received all containers of manufacturing equipment and its engineering team is making quick progress at the facility.
Many statewide and regional economic development officials voiced their support, including South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt, and Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers.
"I am so happy companies from around the world continue to identify Florence County as the place to be," Senator Hugh K. Leatherman said this week. "These 25 new jobs in Pamplico represent untold opportunities for our neighbors, families and friends, and I have absolutely no doubt CRAiLAR will be a great corporate citizen for our area!"
"Florence County Council has made economic development one of its top priorities and every new job is a step in the right direction as we continue to march forward," said Florence County Council Chairman, K.G. "Rusty" Smith. "Without question, we are excited about this new industry that NAT brings to our county."
"The Florence County Economic Development Partnership realizes the importance of adding jobs and investment all over the county. We fully support them in their start up efforts and look forward to their continued growth," added Dr. Charles Gould, Chairman, Florence County Economic Development Partnership.
Naturally Advanced Technologies Inc., through its wholly owned subsidiary, CRAiLAR Fiber Technologies Inc., has developed proprietary technologies for production of bast fibers, cellulose pulp, and their resulting by-products in collaboration with Canada's National Research Council.
