US: According to local media, Owens Corning plans to open a US$90m production plant in Joplin, Missouri, which is expected to create more than 100 jobs. The plant will manufacture Thermafiber, mineral wool insulation for commercial, residential and industrial applications. Owens Corning expects the plant to be fully-operational in 2016.
"As a company that only operates in markets with attractive long-term macro drivers such as global industrial production, material substitution, US housing and energy efficiency, our decision to locate in Joplin says a lot about the region and the state. Our new location puts us close to attractive markets and accessible raw materials, a decision we believe will result in higher productivity and an increase in efficiency," said Julian Francis, president of Owens Corning Insulation. "We will benefit from Missouri's reputable workforce. As demand for mineral wool increases, we will need many hands on deck to fulfil orders and we are eager to tap into the state's talent."
As an incentive to assist Owens Corning with its expansion, the Department of Economic Development has offered a strategic economic incentive package that the company can receive if it meets strict job creation and investment criteria. The City of Joplin, the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce, Carl Junction School District, Jasper County and the Missouri Partnership also are assisting with the company's expansion.
"This announcement is terrific news for families in the region that will benefit from these new jobs," said Governor Jay Nixon. "Owens Corning's decision is a testament to our strong manufacturing sector, which has seen tremendous growth over the past few years. While some states are losing manufacturers to other countries, we are attracting new companies and selling more Missouri-made products around the globe."
