Area Development
Shaw Industries, Inc. has announced it is investing at least $45 million in its carpet fiber plant in Lexington County, South Carolina. The investment will be for additional capacity for both nylon and polyester production. The investment will create more than 50 new jobs.

The plant's new polyester extrusion operations will include the use of recycled plastic beverage bottles – expanding Shaw's use of the material. Production on the new equipment will begin at the Lexington County plant in the fourth quarter of 2015.

“By continuing to invest in our people, processes and products, Shaw is able to provide a diverse product mix, innovative design, and the greatest quality and service to our customers,” said Shaw Chairman/CEO Vance Bell.

Shaw acquired and began operating the Lexington County site from Honeywell International, Inc. in 2005. The plant employs approximately 290 associates. Shaw operates seven plants in South Carolina, employing more than 1,500 associates statewide.

In the past two years, Shaw has committed more than $600 million in capital investments to enhance its operations, including $350 million in expansions that will add 1,000 new jobs in the U.S. to its hardwood, carpet tile and resilient manufacturing as well as other key growth areas as those facilities reach full capacity.

“We’re excited to congratulate Shaw Industries on the decision to expand its operations in South Carolina. This $45 million investment and plans to create more than 50 new jobs is terrific news for our manufacturing industry, Lexington County and our state as a whole. We look forward to watching Shaw continue to grow here in South Carolina and around the world for many years to come,” said Governor Nikki Haley.

“As a leader in the manufacturing renaissance, the Palmetto State experienced a 13.5 percent increase in manufacturing job growth over the last four years. Today’s announcement by Shaw Industries is proof that, with our positive business climate and world-class workforce, South Carolina’s success in manufacturing will only continue,” Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt said.