Shaw Industries, Dalton based the world’s largest carpet manufacturer and leading global floor covering provider announced its plan to make investment of at least $45 million in its Lexington County, S.C., carpet fiber plant for additional capacity for both nylon and polyester production.

The plant’s new polyester extrusion operations will include the use of recycled plastic beverage bottles — expanding Shaw’s use of the material. On average, Shaw recycles three billion plastic drink bottles annually at its Clear Path Recycling facility in Fayetteville, N.C., a joint-venture with DAK Americas. Fiber made from that recycled plastic is used in Shaw’s ClearTouch residential carpet products. This keeps a significant volume of waste out of the landfill and saves 1.9 trillion BTUs of energy each year — enough energy to power more than 51,000 U.S. homes a year (based on the average annual electricity consumption for a U.S. residential utility customer in 2013).

Production on the new equipment will begin at the Lexington County plant later this year. In the past two years, Shaw has committed more than $600 million in capital investments to enhance its operations, including $350 million in expansions that will add 1,000 new jobs in the U.S. to its hardwood, carpet tile and resilient manufacturing as well as other key growth areas as those facilities reach full capacity.

Shaw Chairman and CEO Vance Bell said that by continuing to invest in their people, processes and products, Shaw is able to provide a diverse product mix, innovative design and the greatest quality and service to their customers.

South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley said that the investment of $45 million by Shaw to create more than 50 new jobs. They look forward to watching Shaw continue to grow here in South Carolina and around the world for many years to come.

Shaw operates seven plants in South Carolina, employing more than 1,500 associates statewide.