Gov. Nathan Deal today announced that SK innovation, a developer and manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for hybrid electric vehicles, is estimated to create more than 2,000 jobs and invest $1.67 billion in a new manufacturing plant in Jackson County in the long term.
“As the No. 1 state for business six times over, Georgia continues to maintain strong partnerships with Korean businesses and international industry leaders that lead to real results,” said Deal. “SK innovation’s decision to make this significant investment and create more than 2,000 jobs in Jackson County reflects Georgia’s reputation as a top destination for international businesses, especially those in the automotive supply sector. By choosing Georgia, SK innovation will have access to our skilled workforce and extensive manufacturing resources, while also joining a number of other Korean-affiliated companies that operate manufacturing facilities across the state. We appreciate SK innovation’s investment in the Jackson County community and look forward to the company’s success long into the future.”
The proposed manufacturing plant will be constructed in two phases: each phase will add approximately 1,000,000 square feet of manufacturing space and include the hiring of more than 1,000 advanced manufacturing employees.
“SK innovation has been actively looking for a production base to secure competitiveness in the battery business in the major global market,” said Kim Jun, chief executive of SK innovation. “With our business in the hub of the global auto industry, we will grow as a top player in the battery business.”
SK innovation is a part of the SK Group, one of the largest conglomerates in South Korea. The company employs more than 6,500 individuals worldwide. Customers for SK innovation’s battery business include Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai-Kia Motors.
“SK innovation is a world-class company and a leader in the energy, petrochemical and lubricants industries,” said Jackson County Development Authority (JCDA) Director of Economic Development John Scott. “Jackson County, GA, is centrally located in the Southeast United States’ growing automotive industry and we’re excited that companies like SK innovation are taking advantage of our strategic location. Working with SK innovation has been a great experience and we’re very excited to welcome them to the Jackson County family.”
Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Senior Project Manager Yoonie Kim represented the Global Commerce Division in partnership with JCDA and Georgia Power.
“SK Group was among the first Korean investors in Georgia, and has a longstanding history in our state,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Georgia works in aggressive ways to ensure companies like SK innovation have the best resources necessary for them to find success. The more than 2,000 jobs they are creating will be supported by a highly skilled workforce, and by opening its new plant in Jackson County, SK innovation reaffirms its commitment to the people and communities of Georgia. We look forward to partnering on future opportunities as the company continues to grow in our state.”
About SK innovation Co., Ltd: Established in 1962 as South Korea’s first oil refining company, SK innovation engages in diverse areas of business, including exploration and production (E&P), batteries, and information and electronics materials. It owns SK Energy, South Korea’s top refining company, SK Global Chemical, SK Lubricants, SK Incheon Petrochem and SK Trading International. As part of its management system, SK innovation pursues the maximization of happiness for all stakeholders and recognizes the importance of social enterprise, a way to create social values through business.