Tire Recycler Opening South Carolina Facility

Tire International, a tire recycler and manufacturer of rubber products, has announced plans to open a recycling and manufacturing facility in Berkeley County, S.C. Construction of the new facility is expected to cost around $25 million and generate 150 new jobs.

According to a release by the state of South Carolina, Tire International is in the process of upgrading its Moncks Corner facility to prepare for full operation. The company, headquartered in Levittown, N.Y. previously conducted its operations in China.

In the announcement, South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley said, "Tire International's $25 million job-creating investment in the Low Country -- that is expected to generate as many as 1,000 jobs -- is something we're going to celebrate. Our administration works day in and day out to make South Carolina the most attractive state in the country for business development, and bring jobs to every part of our state, and we're excited to see that work pay off for Berkeley County."

"South Carolina continues to have a strong reputation in the materials recycling sector. Tire International's decision to locate in Berkeley County will further bolster that reputation. The company's decision to locate its operations in South Carolina is another indication that our state's business-friendly climate, skilled workforce and exceptional market access are working to attract new investment and international companies," said Bobby Hitt, South Carolina’s Secretary of Commerce.

Marty Sergi, Tire International’s CFO and director, added, "We are delighted to start up operations in the business-friendly environment of South Carolina and Berkeley County. This was the key in our decision to not only expand our operations, but also to move our production operations from China to South Carolina. In addition, the existing infrastructure of the facility has enabled us to commence operations quicker than we could have done in any other location. The ability to have our raw material delivered by rail along with the proximity of the Charleston port will be critical to the success of our business."

Andy Acho, former worldwide director of environmental outreach and strategy for Ford Motor Co., and a director of Tire International, said, "It is no longer sufficient for a good company to meet consumer demands by just providing innovative products with excellent durability, quality and reliability. A company's products must also be environmentally responsible. By incorporating recycled materials into their offerings, they not only meet consumer demand but also society's goals. That's what our company is all about."

Tire International is expected to start up operations during the summer and fall of 2011 and have the plant fully operational by the end of 2011.