Columbus McKinnon Corporation, a leading manufacturer and marketer of material handling products, technologies and services, will expand operations in Wadesboro, creating 19 jobs.
The company plans to invest $5.4 million in its Anson County facilities. Last year, the Gertzville, New York-based company acquired STAHL CraneSystems, a well-known brand of hoists and crane components based in Germany. The Anson County expansion will position the company to manufacture STAHL products in North Carolina, introducing the line directly into the North American market.
The average wage of the new positions will be $49,897, which is above the Anson County average wage of $32,594.
“Columbus McKinnon is a global company which can make its products anywhere in the world,” said Gov. Roy Cooper. “The company’s decision to expand in North Carolina proves that our state can compete with the best locations available, and offers global manufacturers everything they need to be successful.”
Columbus McKinnon enjoys a rich 140-year tradition of excellence providing products and services such as hoists, actuators, cranes, and lifting and rigging tools.
“North Carolina leads the Southeast in manufacturing, and companies like Columbus McKinnon understand why, as they have firsthand knowledge of the advantages we offer as a business location,” said state Commerce Secretary Anthony M. Copeland. Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) were instrumental in supporting the company’s expansion decision.
A performance-based grant of $60,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help support the expansion. The One NC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All One NC grants require a matching grant from local governments.
In addition to North Carolina Commerce and the EDPNC, key partners in the project include the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, Anson County, the Town of Wadesboro, and the Anson Economic Development Partnership.