Area Development
South Korea-based SK innovation, a developer and manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for hybrid electric vehicles, is estimated to create more than 2,000 jobs and invest $1.67 billion in the long term on a new manufacturing plant in Jackson County, Georgia.

The proposed manufacturing plant will be constructed in two phases: each phase will add approximately 1-million square feet of manufacturing space and include the hiring of more than 1,000 advanced manufacturing employees.

“SK innovation has been actively looking for a production base to secure competitiveness in the battery business in the major global market,” said Kim Jun, Chief Executive of SK innovation. “With our business in the hub of the global auto industry, we will grow as a top player in the battery business.”

According to state officials, Governor Deal and Governor-elect Brian Kemp met with SK innovation together last week to express Georgia’s current and future commitment to work closely with the company as it creates the largest single investment and job-creating project announced in the state’s history.

“As the No. 1 state for business six times over, Georgia continues to maintain strong partnerships with Korean businesses and international industry leaders that lead to real results,” said Governor Nathan Deal. “SK innovation’s decision to make this significant investment and create more than 2,000 jobs in Jackson County reflects Georgia’s reputation as a top destination for international businesses, especially those in the automotive supply sector.

“By choosing Georgia, SK innovation will have access to our skilled workforce and extensive manufacturing resources, while also joining a number of other Korean-affiliated companies that operate manufacturing facilities across the state. We appreciate SK innovation’s investment in the Jackson County community and look forward to the company’s success long into the future,” the Governor added.

“SK innovation is a world-class company and a leader in the energy, petrochemical and lubricants industries,” said Jackson County Development Authority Director of Economic Development John Scott. “Jackson County is centrally located in the Southeast United States’ growing automotive industry and we’re excited that companies like SK innovation are taking advantage of our strategic location. Working with SK innovation has been a great experience and we’re very excited to welcome them to the Jackson County family.”