Canada based, Carlson Engineered Composites which produces fibre glass components plans to expand its operations to Anniston and invest $3 million that will create 75 new jobs in Calhoun County, Alabama.

According to a Carlson press release, the company will be locating in an existing 67,000-square-foot building with operations expected to begin in the first quarter of 2015.

Carlson Engineered Composites is a subsidiary of the Carlson Group, and has a similar production facility in Minnesota.

The Minnesota facility produces fibre glass composites for original equipment manufacturers in the transportation, agricultural, automotive, recreational, and food processing industries.

One of the company’s largest automotive customers is New Flyer Industries, which also has a facility in Anniston.

The Carlson Group is composed of four companies: Carlson Commercial & Industrial Services Ltd., Carlson Engineered Composites, Inc., Carlson Engineered Composites USA Inc., and Carlson Truck Outfitters.

Carlson has been serving different industries from its headquarters in Winnipeg since its inception in 1939.

Alabama secretary of commerce, Greg Canfield said Calhoun County is a good fit for Carlson, which can pursue new business in the region’s thriving automotive manufacturing sector.

“Alabama is committed to helping the advanced manufacturing sector thrive, and we are seeing manufacturers add jobs through expansions and new facilities across the state,” Canfield added.

“This project from Carlson will deliver substantial benefits to Calhoun County and by bringing in new capital investment and new jobs, the project creates opportunity for county residents,” he noted. (AR)