Governor Pat McCrory and North Carolina Commerce Secretary Sharon Decker announced that Cape Fear Arsenal Inc. will locate a new manufacturing facility in Robeson County. The company plans to create 150 jobs and invest more than $15.2 million over the next three years in Lumberton.
“Our state has a strong manufacturing legacy,” said Governor McCrory. “This new facility advances that legacy with an innovative process that will result in much-needed, well-paying jobs for workers in Robeson County.”
Cape Fear Arsenal is a privately held corporation focusing on providing high quality ammunition products in the Southeast U.S. Its products will be primarily sold to law enforcement. The company also anticipates bidding on contracts for the military and state agencies.
“Cape Fear Arsenal’s decision to locate this facility in Robeson County is a big win for the region and state,” said Sharon Decker, North Carolina Secretary of Commerce. “Our commitment to spurring economic growth continues to bring good-paying, high-skilled jobs for North Carolina families.”
Salaries will vary by job function, but the average annual wage for the new jobs will be $41,559, plus benefits. The Robeson County average annual wage is $26,832.
“CFA is very appreciative of this opportunity to partner with the state of North Carolina and Robeson County, as we look to do something positive in this industry,” said CEO David Hargitt. “Without the state and local government’s outstanding support, CFA’s ability to provide these opportunities in Lumberton would not have been possible. CFA will apply innovative manufacturing technology and the highly competent Robeson County workforce to produce various calibers of pistol ammunition for an already stressed and lacking ammunition market.”
The project was made possible in part by a performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund of up to $490,000. The One NC Fund provides financial assistance, through local governments, to attract business projects that will stimulate economic activity and create new jobs in the state. Companies receive no money up front and must meet job creation and investment performance standards to qualify for grant funds. These grants also require and are contingent upon local matches.
“This new manufacturing facility will provide solid employment opportunities for an area that was hit hard by the recession,” said Sen. Michael Walters. “We welcome Cape Fear Arsenal to North Carolina and wish them continued success in Lumberton.”
“North Carolina’s tremendous workforce continues to attract businesses to our state, and we’re excited to have Cape Fear Arsenal coming to Robeson County,” said Rep. Garland Pierce.
Other partners that helped with this project include: the N.C. Department of Commerce, N.C. Community Colleges, Robeson County, City of Lumberton, Robeson County Economic Development Commission and the Robeson County Committee of 100.