Shaw to expand its carpet fibre plant with investment of US45 mn in SC

Shaw Industries Group, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., is the world’s largest carpet and floor covering provider, plans to expand its carpet fibre plant operations for additional capacity for both nylon and polyester production with an investment of atleast US 45 million in Lexington County, South Carolina.

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, NC, a joint-venture with DAK Americas.

Fibre made from that recycled plastic is used in Shaw’s ClearTouch residential carpet products. This is said to keep a significant volume of waste out of the landfill and save 1.9 trillion BTUs of energy each year – enough energy to power more than 51,000 US homes a year.

Production on the new equipment will begin at the Lexington County plant in the fourth quarter of 2015. In the past two years, Shaw has committed more than US 600 million in capital investments to enhance its operations, including US 350 million in expansions that will add 1,000 new jobs in the US to its hardwood, carpet tile and resilient manufacturing, as well as other key growth areas as those facilities reach full capacity.

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

Shaw acquired and began operating the Lexington County site from Honeywell International in 2005. The plant employs approximately 290 associates. Shaw operates seven plants in South Carolina, employing more than 1,500 associates statewide.

This new venture by Shaw proves that the company’s top management has faith in Lexington County’s leadership as well as its workforce. Lexington County Council remains committed to providing an atmosphere that fosters growth for their long term existing industries, said Lexington County Chairman Johnny Jeffcoat.

This investment by Shaw to also create more than 50 new jobs for their manufacturing industry, Lexington County and their state as a whole.