Shalag US Inc. — the North American division of Israel-based textile company Shalag Industries Ltd., a global supplier of nonwoven fabrics for hygiene and wipes applications will be expanding its production facility in Granville County, North Carolina. The expansion will create 40 new jobs over the next three years.

The expansion of the facility in Oxford with an investment of $16 million would add a third thermo-bonding production line. The company currently has 74 employees in its Oxford plant.

Jeff Harari, CEO of Shalag US Inc. said that he was delighted about their continued expansion of manufacturing facility in Oxford. When their new line is complete and running at anticipated levels, it will increase their overall production capacity in the US by 60 percent, and increase their entire company’s production capabilities by 25 percent.

The main factor in the Oxford plant expansion is the company's objective to increase its range of products and reach more customers. The current plant will be enlarged and specialized equipment added for an additional production line. This enhancement will raise the efficiency of production and work processes, both on the additional manufacturing line as well as on existing lines.

The project was made possible in part by a performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund of up to $100,000. The One NC Fund provides financial assistance, through local governments, to attract business projects that will stimulate economic activity and create new jobs in the state. Companies receive no money up front and must meet job creation and investment performance standards to qualify for the reimbursement. The One NC Fund also requires and is contingent upon local matches.

Governor Pat McCrory said that manufacturing is one of North Carolina’s traditional industries that has helped build their economy. It’s always great to see companies such as Shalag US expand manufacturing operations and create additional jobs right here at home.

In addition to the N.C. Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of N.C., other partners that helped with this project include: North Carolina Community College System, Vance-Granville Community College, Granville County Economic Developm ent, and Granville County.

Companies continue to look at their skilled workforce and business-friendly climate as the reason to stay and grow here.