An investment of nearly $40 million by Agru America is expected to mean 126 new jobs for Georgetown and Williamsburg counties, the company announced Wednesday.
The maker of geosynthetics, is expanding its Georgetown production facility by 40,000 square feet, with a 130,000-square-foot asphalt storage yard, to accommodate new production equipment. This includes at least three new machines and new employees to support the additional production capacity. This expansion will involve a $19.2 million investment and the creation of 49 jobs.
In January, Agru America purchased the assets of a production facility in Andrews, where the company has expanded its business to include production of needle-punched, non-woven textiles for environmental, industrial, automotive, bedding and furniture products. The company is upgrading and expanding this facility to accommodate additional production equipment and an increased labor force. The $19.9 million investment is expected to create 77 new jobs.
“We are pleased with the opportunity to move forward with these expansions. We have seen demand for our products increase and adding capacity at both facilities will help us meet our manufacturing goals. South Carolina has provided us with an excellent business environment for almost two decades, and both Georgetown and Williamsburg counties are perfect fits for our business. We appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Robert Johnson, president of Agru America.
Gov. Nikki Haley congratulated the company on the expansion.
“Seeing a South Carolina company decide to increase its footprint not just in one, but two counties is always exciting. We are working hard every day to help companies prosper by strengthening our state’s business-friendly climate and develop the skills of our workforce. Today’s announcement by Agru America is another sign we are on the right track,” said Haley.
Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt said the announcement "is a striking example of what can happen when state, regional and local pool their resources."
Georgetown County Council Chairman Johnny Morant says Agru America has been one of the area's finest local companies and has demonstrated just how successful a high-tech, eco-friendly company can be in our area. We look forward to working with them to provide a skilled workforce so they can accomplish their business objectives in the years to come."
The company was founded in 1948 in Bad Hall, Austria. The manufacturing and headquarters were relocated in 1996 to their current home in Georgetown.
As new jobs become available for the expansion projects, jobs will be posted and offered through the SCWorks offices. The Georgetown SCWorks Center can be reached at (843) 546-8581.