An independent compounder with headquarters in Italy, SO.F.TER. GROUP, will build its first U.S. operation in Lebanon, Tennessee. Its new $11.5 million headquarters for the Americas will be located on 21 acres off Highway 109 in Wilson County, initially creating 50 new jobs with ultimate site employment expected to exceed 150.

The company’s Lebanon facility will first be constructed at 100,000 square feet, but will eventually be expanded to more than 250,000 square feet. The site will be dedicated to the production, development and sale of engineering plastics and other advanced solutions for the U.S. market.

“We are excited to be part of this project that will bring the SO.F.TER. GROUP to the United States,” Managing Director of SO.F.TER. U.S. Mark Rodden said. “SO.F.TER.’s product portfolio is one of the most comprehensive in the industry. SO.F.TER.’S experience, financial strength and long-term view will enable us to focus on customers with a one-to-one approach, based on flexible and tailored solutions.”

“The foundation of SO.F.TER. U.S. is a step of paramount importance in our internationalization strategy,” Global Commercial Director of SO.F.TER. GROUP Riccardo Meucci said. “In addition to the size and breadth of its markets, we believe the U.S. has excellent prospects for growth. Moreover, the U.S. operation completes our presence in the Americas and complements our presence in Mexico and Brazil. Now, indeed, we can be considered as a global supplier, providing the same high quality products all around the world”.

“I have enjoyed getting to know SO.F.TER. management and appreciate their decision to locate in Tennessee,” Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty said. “SO.F.TER.’s investment underscores the momentum our state is enjoying in such a globally competitive market as companies seek the best location for long-term capital investment. We congratulate SO.F.TER. on this move and welcome them to Tennessee as a valued corporate citizen for many years to come.”

" I am very excited to have been a part of the location of the SO.F.TER. GROUP to Wilson County. I believe that it is a vote of confidence for Wilson County's workforce.” Wilson County Mayor Randall Hutto said. "I want to thank both the management team of SO.F.TER and members of the Wilson County Commission for their support which made today's announcement possible. We congratulate the company on this great news and look forward to being a part of their continued growth.”