SHELBY, NC — Clearwater Paper Corporation is set to launch a major expansion in Cleveland County that will add 180 jobs to the area.
Governor Roy Cooper announced today that the company, which is the largest provider of private-brand tissue in the U.S., will invest $330 million at its production and distribution operations in Shelby.
“Companies like Clearwater Paper know that North Carolina is a wonderful place to do business thanks to our skilled workforce, strong infrastructure and prime location,” said Governor Cooper. “We want companies looking to expand to come to North Carolina because there’s no better place to invest and grow.”
Officials say Clearwater Paper will hire operators, distribution staff, maintenance personnel, and various other workers as part of the expansion. The company also says that annual compensation, which will vary based on position, will average about $4,000 more than Cleveland County’s current overall average wage.
“From 2010 to today, our experience operating in Shelby, North Carolina, has been exceptional and we continue to enjoy the region’s outstanding transportation infrastructure, business-friendly community, and overall quality of life,” said Linda Massman, president and CEO of Clearwater Paper.
“For those same reasons and a competitive incentive program from the City of Shelby, Cleveland County and the State of North Carolina, we are pleased to announce the company’s newest state-of-the-art tissue machine will be built in Shelby. And special thanks to the citizens of Cleveland County and the State of North Carolina for making our decision clear.”
Officials say the company’s expansion in Cleveland County will be partly facilitated by a Job Development Investment Grant that was approved by the state’s Economic Investment Committee early Wednesday.
“Today’s announcement is welcome news for Cleveland County and North Carolina,” said House Speaker Tim Moore. “Clearwater Paper has been an exemplary employer and member of our business community since it opened its doors here in 2010.”
“These additional jobs and capital investment are significant for Cleveland County’s economy,” said N.C. Senator Warren Daniel “Clearwater Paper’s success is yielding great dividends for our workers and our community.”
