Plasticard Locktech International, a specialty manufacturer of hotel keycards and other products, is investing $4.4 million on expanding its production facility in Buncombe County, Asheville, North Carolina to 95,000 square feet, creating more than 40 jobs.

PLI, headquartered in Asheville's Sweeten Creek Industrial Center at 605 Sweeten Creek Road, also makes products such as gift cards, membership cards, door hangers, magnets, posters and display banners. PLI currently employs 200 workers at its Asheville plant.

"Creating jobs is my top priority," Gov. Bev Perdue said. "PLI's choice to locate in Buncombe County is a testament to our excellent workforce and top-notch business climate. It's great news when home-grown companies decide to expand their operations right here in North Carolina."

"I am extremely proud and excited for the continued growth PLI is experiencing. As a resident of the Asheville area for more than 20 years, it has always been important to me that we support the local community and economy," said Mark Goldberg, CEO of PLI. "Growing from just three employees to now 200 is a testament to our success and commitment to Asheville and North Carolina as a whole."

At the beginning of the year the firm acquired the hotel keycard division of Canadian-based LOC International, which enable the firm to acquire several large contracts, including agreements with some of the biggest names in hospitality.

"PLI is actively hiring for all shifts and nearly all positions, for both Sales and Production," PLI Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Peter M. Krauss said. "Although we had been actively courted by other cities and states to expand our business elsewhere, our decision to do so here in Asheville is further proof of our commitment to the state, the city and our employees. We are always seeking skilled and eager workers that want to join a winning team."

"Our business has continued to grow even in light of the economic downturn," Goldberg added. "We're continuing to add new products and services, which has created an immediate need for additional staff. "