Governor Pat McCrory and North Carolina Commerce Secretary Sharon Decker announced that Custom Nonwoven, Inc., a global producer of polyester staple fiber, will locate a new manufacturing facility in Davidson County.  The company plans to create 72 jobs and invest more than $12.8 million over the next three years in Thomasville.

“With a rich and distinct history in textiles and manufacturing, it’s no surprise that Davidson County was chosen for Custom Nonwoven’s substantial expansion,” said Governor McCrory. “Our administration is working hard to provide the assistance that advanced manufacturers need to grow and create jobs right here in North Carolina.”

Custom Nonwoven, Inc. is a Korean-owned company that develops and manufactures polyester nonwoven pads and rolls through a thermal bonding process.  The company is bringing a new production line to Thomasville, which will manufacture fire retardant barrier and fire retardant mattress pads for use in cushion seatings for medical, military and institutional applications.  This facility will be the company’s first in North Carolina.

“We’re committed to increasing the number of jobs in North Carolina, and we know that many of these jobs will come from a resurgence in manufacturing,” said Secretary Decker. “Innovative companies like Custom Nonwoven are bringing new machinery and technology that will be put to use by the Triad’s talented workforce.”

Salaries will vary by job function, but the average annual wage for the new jobs will be $45,875 plus benefits. The Davidson County average annual wage is $32,339.

“We are really excited to be a member of the furniture capital of the world, partnered with the City of Thomasville and Davidson County,” said JM Kim, owner of Customer Nonwoven, Inc.  “We will do our best to make a positive impact on the local area by creating more jobs and growing together.”

The project was made possible in part by a performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund of up to $128,000. The grant is contingent upon proof of job creation and receipt of a local funding match. 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 grant funds. 

“I am extremely pleased that Custom Nonwoven has chosen to create 72 new jobs in Davidson County,” said Sen. Stan Bingham. “Our strong workforce and business-friendly climate helped create the ideal location for the company and we are excited to welcome them here.”

“Companies know that Davidson County’s workforce is second to none. We must continue to support our education and job training programs that make North Carolina a great place to do business,” said Rep. Roger Younts. “I’m sure Custom Nonwoven Inc. employees will enjoy a great quality of life in Thomasville.”

Other partners that helped with this project include: the N.C. Department of Commerce, N.C. Community Colleges, Davidson County, City of Thomasville, and the Davidson County Economic Development Commission.