Performance Fabrics and Fibers expands in Williamsburg

Tag : nonwovens cloth

COLUMBIA -- The Williamsburg County Development Board and the SouthCarolina Department of Commerce joined Performance Fabrics andFibers, LLC (Performance) in announcing that the company hasexpanded in Williamsburg County adding a manufacturing facility and42 full-time employees. Performance currently operates inWilliamsburg County and has expanded as a result of market demands.

Performance is a specialty nonwoven manufacturer, making engineeredfabrics as part of a growing, global market that exceeds $12billion. Of the numerous technologies used to manufacturenonwovens, the South Carolina-based privately held company isprimarily focused on manufacturing needle punch nonwovens.

Performance President and CEO Loren Collins remarks, “Theexpansion was a strategic move to add much needed capacity thatwill further our emphasis on innovative products.”

Performance manufactures and markets a wide range of specialty,technical fabrics for diverse markets. The company is significantlyinvolved in making safety fabrics, particularly flame retardantfabrics that protect bedding and furniture from burning. Thecompany is also a leader in nonwovens that go into floor covering,geotextile, and industrial markets.

Performance Chief Operating Officer Ken Knudsen added, “Themove is in response to the market needs for high-quality products.We expect that the addition will be good both forPerformance’s customers and for its shareholders.”Performance’s latest expansion adds nonwoven capacity,broadens its technology, adds a new manufacturing plant, andbackward integrates into the production of making fiber for its ownuse and for sale.

“Performance produces nonwoven cloth with the capability toengineer cloth to meet its customers’ specific needs. Thecompany’s decision to expand its presence in South Carolinaspeaks favorably to the state’s business-friendly climate andskilled workforce. Thanks to the team efforts of state and localofficials, Williamsburg County will benefit from thisexpansion,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

“We applaud the expansion of our wonderful economicdevelopment partner, Performance Fabrics and Fibers. We value themnot just as an employer, but as a member of our neighborhood. Theirwillingness to expand their operations here and create new jobs forour citizens is certainly appreciated. We continue to support theirindustry and stand willing to help in any way,” said SenatorYancey McGill.

“Performance Fabrics and Fibers has been a tremendouscorporate partner and this expansion will only enhance theircontribution to the citizens of Williamsburg County. Wecongratulate them on their decision to expand their operation andcreate additional jobs,” said Stanley S. Pasley, WilliamsburgCounty Supervisor and Chairman of Williamsburg County Council.

Rodney Giles, Mayor of Andrews added, “We would like to takethis opportunity to congratulate Performance Fabrics and Fibers ontheir expansion in Andrews, South Carolina, and the jobs that willbe created will be a great benefit to our citizens. Again, wecongratulate them and are willing to assist them in any waypossible.”

The company will be investing additional funds into its operationin the coming year and seeks to add jobs later in 2008 and 2009.Funds will go towards adding more equipment, upgrading existingmachinery, and further funding its research & developmentefforts in 2008 to better serve its customers and markets.