Eastman Chemical Company will invest $1.6 billion in its Kingsport, Tennessee, manufacturing facility, with plans to add 300 employees during the next seven years. In a project dubbed “Inspire” the company will invest in new growth opportunities, safety and environmental projects, increased warehouse capacity, building renovations and expansion of its corporate campus.

"Eastman is proud to be making a significant investment in Tennessee. Project Inspire will allow us to remain a global leader and further expand our ability to provide solutions and build on our 100-year heritage of innovation,” said Chemical Company chairman and CEO Jim Rogers. "This multi-year project will culminate in Eastman’s 100th anniversary in 2020. I can think of no better way to honor our long-term commitment to this site and surrounding community than through this very significant investment in our future.”

As part of this project, the Regional Center for Advanced Manufacturing will see expanded facilities, additional program development and increased workforce recruitment and educational outreach.

“I want to thank Eastman and its employees for all of the incredible work they do that has brought us here today,” Gov. Bill Haslam said. “For nearly 100 years, Eastman has been crucial to the state’s economy, growing into a global brand, and today’s announcement means they will continue to grow right here where they started. This investment will bring hundreds of high quality jobs to the state, and I appreciate Eastman’s continued investment in Tennessee.”