Newberry County's Kiswire Expanding, Hiring for New Jobs

Kiswire Inc., a maker of steel cord for the tire industry, is expanding its Newberry County manufacturing operations resulting in the creation of at least 30 jobs, state officials said Thursday.

“We celebrate Kiswire’s decision to invest $15 million and create more than 30 jobs in Newberry," Gov. Nikki Haley said in a news release. "Existing businesses like Kiswire continue to choose to increase their footprint in South Carolina, and that shows the strength of our business-friendly climate and strong workforce."

"Announcements like today’s indicate we’re on the right track with our economic development efforts."

The company is investing $15 million in the first phase of expansion. Kiswire is adding a new manufacturing facility that will be located on U.S. Highway 76. Construction on the building is expected to begin this quarter. Production at the facility is expected to start by the end of 2013.

“We are excited about this opportunity to expand our manufacturing operations in Newberry County," Dave Minnick, president of Kiswire Inc., said in the release. "South Carolina has provided a great home for our company for more than a decade, giving us an excellent business environment and a talented workforce. We look forward to continuing to grow in South Carolina and appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials.” 

The recent growth of South Carolina's tire industry was a driving factor leading to the expansion, company officials said.

According to the release, the Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved a Governor’s Closing Fund grant of $550,000 for site preparation and road work, and approved job development credits, which will be available when hiring targets are met.

Newberry County Council Chairman and Central SC Alliance Vice Chairman Henry “Buddy” H. Livingston III said they were fortunate to have Kiswire in the community for more than a decade and that the company’s expansion will provide great job opportunities for Newberry County citizens.

The company will begin hiring for the new positions in May. To learn more about the job opportunities, call the SC Works Office at 803-276-2110 or visit the office at 833 Main Street in Newberry .

For more information on Kiswire, Inc., click here.