Governor Pat McCrory and N.C. Commerce Secretary Sharon Decker announced Cascades Tissue Group will open a new manufacturing facility in Scotland County. The company plans to create 68 new jobs and invest $62 million during the next three years in Wagram. The investment includes $55 million of new capital expenditure (such as building infrastructure, new equipment and other capitalized expenses) and converting equipment to be transferred from other facilities outside of North Carolina valued at $7 million.
“This investment in the Sandhills region of North Carolina not only provides much needed jobs, but also confirms a global company’s commitment to Scotland County in the years ahead,” said Governor McCrory. "Today's jobs announcement shows that by working together and effectively leveraging our state's talent and resources, North Carolina will continue to lead in manufacturing.”
Cascades Inc. is a multinational company based in Kingsey Falls, Quebec, Canada. The company produces eco-friendly packaging and tissue products. Founded in 1964 by three brothers, the company now employs nearly 12,000 people in more than 100 operating units across North America and Europe. Cascades Inc. currently employs 178 workers at facilities in Kinston and Rockingham, North Carolina. This announcement will also secure existing jobs at the company’s other North Carolina locations.
“This is a great example of how Governor McCrory and I are focused on helping promote economic development in our rural communities,” said Secretary Decker. “Companies like Cascades Inc. recognize that North Carolina is a great place to do business.”
Cascades Tissue Group produces paper towels, bathroom tissue, and napkins among other products. Its wide-range of finished products is available to the consumer market under the brand Cascades® and other private labels.
Salaries will vary by job function, but the annual average salary is approximately 47 percent above the average wage in Scotland County. The average annual payroll for the new positions is nearly $3.2 million.
"Cascades is expanding its presence in the Southeast, one of the fastest growing markets in the United States,” said Suzanne Blanchet, President and CEO of Cascades Tissue Group. “This investment in North Carolina will allow us to optimize our converting platform by relocating equipment presently used elsewhere, by adding new manufacturing equipment and installing robotized warehouse management. In doing so, we are moving closer to many key markets, improving our productivity and logistics while enhancing customer service.”
The project was made possible in part by a performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund of up to $402,000. 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 facility will provide an important economic boost to Scotland County and the surrounding area,” said Rep. Ken Goodman. “We welcome Cascades Inc. and wish them continued success.”
"North Carolina and Scotland County have proven to be an exceptional source of talent for growing companies,” said Rep. Garland Pierce. “I will continue to focus hard on economic development and job creation in this region.”
“I commend the cooperation of Scotland County and Secretary Decker,” said Senator Gene McLaurin. “We're grateful for Cascades Inc. decision to grow here and we're looking forward to working with them for many years to come.”
Other partners that helped with this project include: the N.C. Department of Commerce, N.C. Community Colleges, Richmond Community College, Golden Leaf, Scotland County Economic Development Corporation, and Scotland County.