A&K Textiles announces new facility in Barnwell County
December 1, 2011
Investment expected to create 120 new jobs
BARNWELL COUNTY, SC – December 1, 2011 – A&K Textiles LLC, a maker of safety clothing, today announced plans to establish its new operations in Barnwell County. The $150,000 investment is expected to generate 120 new jobs.
“We look forward to starting up our new operations in the coming months. Barnwell County had a building to suit our needs and offers us a business-friendly climate,” said Kevin Bradley, owner of A&K Textiles.
A&K Textiles will set up a new cut-and-sew operation in part of the former Hanesbrands building in Barnwell County. The company is relocating operations from Alexandria, Egypt. The company expects to bring the new operations online by April 2012.
“It’s a great day in South Carolina and we celebrate A&K Textiles’ decision to locate its production facility here and create 120 new jobs. Our state’s rural areas continue to show they provide an excellent business environment for new operations,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.
“South Carolina has a reputation as a state that can make things. We also have a long tradition of being a textile manufacturing state. A&K Textiles’ new operation will build on that reputation,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.
Since the beginning of the year, South Carolina has recruited more than $3.3 billion in investment and more than 12,000 new jobs in the manufacturing sector.
“We are excited to see yet another industry choose to invest in our county and create jobs for our citizens. This is continued evidence that we are doing the right things to make Barnwell County competitive for business development,” said Barnwell County Council Chairman Travis Black.
“Today’s announcement is another great economic development win, not just for the City of Barnwell, but also for Barnwell County. We congratulate A&K Textiles on their decision and welcome them to Barnwell,” said Barnwell Mayor Edward Lemon.
“The announcement of A&K Textiles is another example of how well Barnwell County and the Barnwell County EDC work together to create jobs and capital investment in Barnwell County,” said Barnwell County EDC Chairman Pete Grady.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved the company for a rural infrastructure grant to help with upfit of the building.
The company will begin hiring for the new positions in March. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact SCWorks Center in Barnwell at that time.
