A Chinese tire manufacturer will build a consumer tire plant in the U.S. Qingdao Sentury Tire Co. Ltd. will invest $530 million in the plant, to be located in LaGrange, Ga.
More than 1,000 jobs will be created in Troup County as a result of the investment.
“We are very happy to select LaGrange (as) the location of our North American manufacturing,” says Sentury Tire Executive Vice President Rami Helminen. “The education systems and high quality workforce complement our leading edge technology in the production and research and development. We are confident that Georgia has the infrastructure that can help us build a successful logistical operation to supply our growing aftermarket dealer sales and OEM sales to auto manufacturers in the North American market.
"We anticipate production to start in 2018 and will build up to our projected manufacturing capacity of 12 million passenger and light truck tires.”
Georgia Governor Nathan Deal says the commitment speaks to Georgia’s business-friendly climate "and the strong relationship we maintain with our economic partners in China.”
"I am positive that Georgia’s automotive manufacturing and technology capabilities will be assets to Sentury as the company serves a growing customer base.”
Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Director of International Investment Nico Wijnberg represented the Global Commerce division in partnership with Georgia Power, Georgia Quick Start, the Georgia Ports Authority and the LaGrange Development Authority.
There are 38 Chinese businesses with operations in Georgia.
"The state of Georgia has had a strategic office in China since 2007 and an office in Qingdao since 2013, helping foster business connections between Georgians and Chinese professionals,” says GDEcD Commissioner Chris Carr. “This project is a great example of the relationships that have been forged through active communication and engagement in China."
“Sentury Tire's decision confirms that LaGrange is one of the best places for international investment in the Southeast," says City of LaGrange Mayor Jim Thorton. "LaGrange is already a regional hub for advanced manufacturing, and our city is currently home to businesses hailing from 10 foreign nations."
"When you combine great leadership with great resources, you get great results. This was truly a team win for all involved!” adds Scott Malone, president of the Development Authority of LaGrange.
Sentury also is planning to incorporate a research and development center into the operation that will employ approximately 100 highly qualified technical personnel.
Sentury Tire products are sold worldwide under the brands Sentury, Landsail and Delinte. About 70% of the company's sales are in the European Union and U.S markets. Sentury Tire's U.S.-based subsidiary is Sentury Tire Americas, based in Miami, Fla.
Qingdao Sentury Tire Co. specializes in the advanced manufacturing of tires for use in the automotive and aerospace industries. Robotics plays a crucial role in the company’s production process.
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