London-based technical nonwoven fabrics manufacturer Fiberweb Plc is to invest $15 million over two years to expand its facility in Old Hickory, Tenn. The expansion includes a 300,000-square-foot warehouse and distribution center and will concentrate all operations into one location, thus streamlining production and reducing the company's carbon footprint. Fiberweb will host a groundbreaking ceremony, expansion informational session and reception at the expansion site on May 17.
"This $15-million capital project strengthens Fiberweb's position as a global leader in development and manufacture of high-tech materials, and demonstrates our commitment to doing this in Middle Tennessee," said Gary Dies, vice president, operations. "The manufacturing industry plays a vital role in the economic development of Tennessee, contributing more than 360,000 jobs to communities throughout the state. Fiberweb is proud of the part we play in the overall economic health of the communities in which we live and work."
Over the past four years, Fiberweb added a state-of-the-art research and development center at a cost of $12 million and has invested $25 million to build an on-site shale-gas powered utility plant in Old Hickory. The facility employs 500 people and has a total annual payroll of approximately $40 million.
"I want to thank Fiberweb for its investment, and I appreciate the company's continued commitment to our state," said Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam. "Expanding businesses already located in Tennessee is critical to growing our state's economy and helping us reach our goal of becoming the No. 1 state in the Southeast for high quality jobs."
