Governor Pat McCrory and N.C. Commerce Secretary Sharon Decker announced on Oct. 4 that Jacob Holm Industries, a global nonwoven manufacturing company, will expand its operations in Buncombe County. The company plans to create 66 new jobs with a minimum qualifying investment of more than $45.9 million. The total capital investment is likely to exceed $60 million when the final project is complete. This growth will take place over the next three years in Candler. The N.C. Department of Commerce’s Bill Payne served as the developer on this project.
Jacob Holm Industries was founded in 1794, and today has its global headquarters in Basel, Switzerland. Its U.S. subsidiary, Jacob Holm Industries (America) Inc., has its operations headquartered in Candler. JHI is one of the world’s leading nonwoven corporations that offer high-quality products for personal care, home care, hygiene, packaging, and industrial markets. The company currently employs 82 workers in Candler, manufacturing premium spunlaced nonwoven products.
Salaries will vary by job function, but the average annual wage for the new jobs will be $46,258 plus benefits. The Buncombe County average annual wage is $35,565.
“Jacob Holm Industries is pleased to announce this new technology investment at our existing operation in Candler,” said Jacob Holm President Steve Landon. “Since opening our doors in Western North Carolina back in 2005, the company has been impressed with the local community, the availability of a quality workforce and the willingness of state and local officials to support our goal of becoming the premier nonwoven manufacturer in North America. This new production line is planned to start commercial production in Q1, 2015. “
The project was made possible in part by a performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund of up to $100,000. The grant is contingent upon proof of job creation and receipt of a local funding match, which will be approved in a public hearing in Candler.
Other partners that helped with this project include: N.C. Community Colleges, Buncombe County and the Economic Development Coalition of Asheville-Buncombe County. Read more.