Stacy Cobb Director, Internal Audit | North Carolina Department of Commerce
Stacy Cobb Director, Internal Audit | North Carolina Department of Commerce
Governor Josh Stein announced that Barrier Fencing Supply Company plans to create 151 jobs in North Carolina with a new headquarters and manufacturing center in Columbus County. The company, which offers aluminum and vinyl fences to residential and commercial markets, will invest $15 million in the project.
“North Carolina’s southeast region and Columbus County are a terrific place to do business,” said Governor Stein. “Barrier Fencing’s project brings good jobs and welcome investment there and the company’s decision shows once again that CEOs recognize North Carolina’s advantages as a business location.”
Barrier Fencing Supply Company, initially a fencing installation firm, has expanded into supplying its own products nationwide. The new facility will serve as both its headquarters and a manufacturing plant, bringing significant manufacturing activities back to the United States.
“Our aim is to generate employment, assist those in need, and to make a meaningful difference in the community,” stated Tony Bowling, CEO of Barrier Fencing Supply Company. “Our goals and progress will be achieved thanks to the State of North Carolina and Columbus County. We are thankful and look forward to this partnership.”
Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley commented on North Carolina's appeal for manufacturers: “North Carolina is the number one state for manufacturing in the Southeast, so it’s only natural that Barrier Fencing would choose to expand here.”
The average salary for these new positions will be $44,114 compared to Columbus County's current average wage of $44,081.
To support this initiative, a performance-based grant of $275,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will aid Barrier Fencing's expansion into Columbus County. This fund assists local governments in attracting economic investments by providing financial assistance contingent upon job creation and capital investment targets being met.
N.C. House Majority Leader Brenden Jones expressed his support: “Making products in the United States strengthens our economy, so it’s great to see Barrier Fencing choose Columbus County for their new manufacturing plant.” N.C. Senator Bill Rabon acknowledged the efforts of various partners involved: “Many state, regional, and local partners worked hard behind the scenes... I appreciate this collaborative teamwork very much.”
Collaborators on this project include multiple state departments such as the North Carolina Department of Commerce and Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina along with local entities like Columbus County Economic Development Commission.
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