RPA Development to Grow, Add 43 Employees
May 27, 2014
COLUMBIA, SC – RPA Development LLC, a designer and manufacturer of fencing and railing products and the machines to produce them, has purchased and will upfit a 90,000 square foot facility in South Carolina to meet growing international and domestic demand for its products. The $2.8 million investment is expected to add at least 43 new jobs over the next few years.
Established by founder Ron Allen in 1989, the company sells under the AAA Fencecrafters and Snaptight Aluminum brand names. AAA Fencecrafters installs wood, vinyl, chain link and aluminum fence products for both residential and commercial markets across the United States. Snaptight Aluminum manufactures aluminum fencing and railing products, and the equipment to produce those products, for both domestic and international markets.
“AAA Fencecrafters and Snaptight Aluminum are highly trusted brand names for quality fencing and railing products, and we are pleased to announce this exciting expansion of our operations right here in Greenville County,” said Ron Allen, President and Founder of RPA Development LLC. “This organization’s history is deeply rooted in South Carolina and we are excited to embark on this new era of growth and expansion here in our home state. We appreciate the support of the Greenville Area Development Corporation, the Department of Commerce, and all who helped make today’s announcement come to fruition.”
“It’s always a great day in South Carolina and it’s an even better day when one of our existing businesses announces their next expansion. We congratulate RPA Development on their investment and the 43 new jobs they are bringing to Greenville County,” said South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley.
The new operations will be housed in approximately 90,000 square feet of space at 25 Old Mill Road in Mauldin. RPA Development has already begun hiring associates to assist in the relocation of operations, with additional hiring planned as business warrants, said Jim Steinkirchner, Vice President of Business Development for RPA Development. Upfitting of the new facility is targeted for completion in August, 2014.
“We see tremendous growth potential both domestically and internationally for our brands, and are extremely appreciative for the supportive environment and helpful programs that state and local official have provided us in this growth initiative,” added Steinkirchner.
“When we hear about companies like RPA Development that began in South Carolina and choose to grow and expand here, it is a testament to not only our strong workforce, but to our business community as a whole,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.
“As one of South Carolina’s leading fencing and railing manufacturers and installers, RPA Development LLC refuses to be limited in its dreams and ambitions to become a national – and even international – player in the fencing and fence equipment arena,” said Dr. Bob Taylor, Board Member of the Greenville Area Development Corporation and Chairman of Greenville County Council. “We salute their vision and commitment to excellence, and wish them continued growth and success.”
Hiring information for the company will be released shortly, according to Allen. Positions to be filled include welders, CNC operators, production workers, powder coaters, installers, quality control, sales and administrative support positions. Interested candidates should contact their local OneStop office for full details.
“Congratulations to RPA Development on this terrific announcement,” said City of Mauldin Mayor Dennis Raines. “Economic development remains a primary focus of the City of Mauldin. Manufacturing is the backbone of our economy, and the growth and commitment of home-grown companies like RPA Development ensures a healthy, well-balanced Mauldin community and a first-class quality of life.”
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved a $100,000 set aside grant for the project.
