Area Development
South Korea-based PHA, a global auto parts manufacturer, plans to establish production operations in Chatham County, Georgia. The more than $67 million project is expected to create 402 jobs.

The new facility will be located at the Savannah Chatham Manufacturing Center and will produce door modules, tailgate latches, and hood latches for OEMs, including Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in Bryan County. Operations are scheduled to begin in 2024.

“It is an honor for PHA to establish a new production facility in Chatham County, Georgia,” said Sangtae Kim, Chairman of PHA. “As a producer of innovative products for the automotive world and growing EV market, we are extremely excited to be a part of the community. We owe our sincere gratitude to Chatham County and the State of Georgia for their support in making this happen and launching a successful partnership that will bring new jobs and contribute to advancing the economic development of the entire region.”

Korea-based PHA is a Tier-1 automotive parts supplier for Hyundai Motor Group, Kia, and many other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Established in 1985 the company has locations throughout the world, including multiple facilities within the U.S.

“We are excited to welcome PHA to Georgia as the second Hyundai supplier at the Savannah Chatham Manufacturing Center,” noted GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Projects like Hyundai and its suppliers underscore the importance of site preparation to attract jobs and opportunities to a community. Companies are racing the clock to come online to meet demand, so they are prioritizing locations that have already completed GRAD certification. In today’s competitive environment, investing in speed-to-market solutions makes all the difference.”

Director of Project Implementation and Supplier Strategy Alyce Thornhill represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce team in partnership with the Savannah Economic Development Authority, Georgia Ports Authority, Georgia Quick Start, and Georgia Power.

“Today is an exciting day with the announcement of the second Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America supplier to locate in the Savannah Chatham Manufacturing Center,” added Savannah Economic Development Authority President and CEO Trip Tollison. “PHA is a great company and well regarded in the industry. We look forward to working with them as they build their new facility and begin operations in the Savannah region.”