Mohawk Industries acquired the former Beaulieu fiber facility in Bridgeport with plans to upgrade the plant in Jackson County, Alabama.

According to Alabama economic development officials, the transaction includes a commitment to preserve current jobs and grow employment in the community.

Brian Carson, President of Mohawk Flooring North America said the company purchased the plant“to support the growing demand for its carpet and rug collections. We are impressed with the Bridgeport plant’s team and manufacturing capabilities, and we look forward to growing the plant to produce innovative fibers into the future.”

Mohawk is investing significantly to modernize and upgrade the equipment and the building in the Jackson County city, according to the Alabama Department of Commerce. Mohawk has established its initial workforce with individuals already employed at the plant and is actively recruiting people to satisfy present staffing needs. The company anticipates increasing its Bridgeport workforce as ongoing investments expand the plant’s manufacturing capacity.

Jackson County officials said the revival of the fiber plant represents a major economic boon to Bridgeport, a community with a population of around 2,400.

“We are excited to welcome Mohawk to Bridgeport,” Mayor Bubba Hughes said. “We are eager to work with them to make their move a success."

“This transaction by Mohawk, which supports employment growth in Jackson County, was facilitated by teamwork and a determination to find a new owner for a manufacturing facility that has been critical to the vitality of its community,” said Greg Canfield, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.

Vince Perez, a project manager with the Alabama Department of Commerce, said Mohawk was in the market for a new fiber facility when Beaulieu put the Bridgeport plant up for sale. The deal allowed Mohawk to avoid a costly “greenfield” project while being able to invest in new technology and meet an internal timeline.