COLUMBIA, S.C. – August 16, 2010 – The South Carolina Department of Commerce and Kershaw County today announced that TB Kawashima USA Inc. will expand its facility in Kershaw County. The $9 million investment is expected to generate 50 new jobs over the next five years.
“We are pleased to move forward with our new expansion at our plant in Kershaw County. This represents the second expansion to this plant in the last couple of years. Demand for our products has continued to grow, and Kershaw County has provided us with an excellent business environment in which to operate. We appreciate all the support we have received from state and local officials,” said Yuzo Mori, president of TB Kawashima USA.
TB Kawashima USA, a leading producer of fabric for the automotive industry, will expand its operations at its existing facility in Lugoff. The expanded operations at the facility are expected to come online in the fourth quarter of this year.
“TB Kawashima’s expansion is another reminder that South Carolina’s automotive sector continues to present opportunities. TB Kawashima’s decision to increase its footprint in Kershaw County is also a sign that our state’s business-friendly climate, skilled workforce and exceptional market access are working to attract new investment and jobs. By continuing to keep regulatory costs and taxes low, South Carolina is well positioned to compete nationally and globally for new investments and growth among existing industries,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.
“Kershaw County is pleased to have worked with TB Kawashima on the expansion of their Lugoff facility. In light of these interesting economic times, having a company create new jobs is especially welcome. Since locating here in 2003, TB Kawashima has been a strong asset to our manufacturing community, and we look forward to working with them in the future as their growth continues,” stated Max Ford, chairman of Kershaw County Council.
ReadySC will assist Kawashima in providing a personalized training program for the new hires. The company will begin hiring for the positions in the fourth quarter of this year. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact the Human Resources Department or e-mail sarmstrong@tbkawashimausa.com.
TB Kawashima USA is a leading provider of textiles used by the automotive industry for car interiors. The company’s fabrics are used in cars produced by Honda, Nissan, Toyota and GM. For more information about the company, please visit www.tbkawashimausa.com.
About S.C. Department of Commerce
The S.C. Department of Commerce works closely with economic development professionals throughout the state to recruit new jobs and investments and help existing businesses grow. Commerce has been recognized for its success in the areas of job creation and economic impact by Area Development and Business Facilities magazines. The S.C. Department of Commerce was one of 10 state economic development organizations to receive Area Development’s Silver Shovel Award in 2009 and Commerce received the 2009 Deal of the Year award from Business Facilities magazine. Southern Business & Development also awarded the S.C. Department of Commerce the “Deal of the Year” for the 2010 SB&D 100. Commerce received the recognitions for Boeing’s selection of North Charleston for the company’s second final assembly plant to support the 787 Dreamliner program. In addition to job and investment recruitment, the agency provides a range of business support services and offers grants for community development and infrastructure improvements. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.
For Immediate Release
Contact: Kara Borie, SCDOC, 803.737.1998