Area Development
Kiswire Inc., a South Korea-based manufacturer of steel cord and bead wire, is commencing the second phase of its expansion in Newberry, South Carolina. This phase, a $30 million investment, is expected to result in 45 new jobs.

Phase two of the steel cord operation is construction of the Plating Operation Building. Located at 90 Twin Springs Road in Newberry, the construction of this building will add 170,000 square feet to the current facility and will include additional machines.

The facility will convert high carbon steel rod through a process that involves drawing, heat treating, and electro-plating to supply the current building. Construction is expected to begin in December, 2014. Upon completion of this expansion, Kiswire, Inc. will employ approximately 200 between its two Newberry locations. Hiring for the 45 new jobs is expected to begin in the spring.

“The Kiswire Inc. group is pleased and excited about our manufacturing growth in Newberry County. During the last 15 years, the tire bead wire plant has exhibited continual increases in production and is currently at maximum capacity. The expansion of the tire manufacturing business in South Carolina and the southeastern United States has brought great opportunities for us as a supplier. This new steel cord plant positions Kiswire as a major supplier to this growing tire business. We are proud to be part of the bright future in South Carolina,” said Jim Goodrich, Kiswire Inc., Steel Cord Division, Plant Manager.

The first phase of Kiswire Inc. Steel Cord Division, announced in January 2013, represented a $15 million investment and 30 new jobs, which came to fruition when production began at its new manufacturing site in December of last year. Established in 1999 and based out of Newberry, Kiswire produces steel cord and bead wire for the tire industry. When this expansion is completed, Kiswire, Inc. expects to have all tire companies in the U.S. on its client list.

“Kiswire is a great South Carolina company that has been operating in our state for 15 years and their expansion is further proof that companies in the tire industry continue to find success here. We thank Kiswire for their commitment to doing business and growing in our state, and congratulate them on the decision to invest $30 million and create 45 new jobs in Newberry County,” Governor Nikki Haley noted.

“Kiswire is a technologically advanced global company that continues to strengthen ties with Newberry County and South Carolina. We are grateful for this announcement of new capital investment and jobs. The Central South Carolina Region has emerged as the leader in tire manufacturing in the United States and Kiswire plays a prominent role in supporting this growth by providing a quality product, Central SC Alliance Chairman Mike Brenan said.