Chattanooga, Tenn. (April 18, 2023) – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart McWhorter and Kordsa, Inc. officials announced today the company will invest $50 million to expand manufacturing operations at its Chattanooga, Tennessee, facility.

Through this project, Kordsa, Inc. will create 200 new jobs and expand its capacity to convert its products into tire cord fabric. Currently, the Chattanooga facility manufactures Nylon 66 yarn and ships it to North Carolina where it is converted into tire cord fabric and sold to tire manufacturers across the U.S.

Kordsa Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Kordsa, develops environmentally friendly products in the tire industry that reduce fuel consumption and provide better wet grip. Additionally, the company develops technologies in composite industries to create more value to its customers in aerospace and automotive businesses.

Since 2019, Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development has supported more than 20 economic development projects in Hamilton County, resulting in approximately 4,300 job commitments and $1.6 billion in capital investment.

QUOTES
“As Tennessee continues to lead the automotive industry, we proudly welcome additional investment and job creation from companies around the globe. I thank Kordsa, Inc. for investing $50 million in Chattanooga and creating new opportunities for Tennessee families in Hamilton County to thrive.” – Gov. Bill Lee

“We are grateful Kordsa, Inc. has chosen to further invest in Hamilton County. This is a global company that we are proud to have in Tennessee, and we believe Chattanooga will continue to be the ideal location for this company’s future growth and success.” – TNECD Commissioner Stuart McWhorter

“Kordsa Inc. is excited to announce that we are committed to providing growth opportunities at our Chattanooga facility. At Kordsa, we believe that our employees are our greatest strength, and we are proud of being able to create many new jobs in the future. Our Kordsa Facility wants to continue the development of our business and our community for generations to come. Not only do our products reinforce many important products, but our core values reinforce our commitment to providing the best quality products made by the best employees. Kordsa would like to express the most sincere thanks to the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) for assisting us with this project, which will create jobs and opportunities for our community. Tennessee – America at its Best.” – Kadir Toplu, COO, Kordsa, Inc.

“Kordsa’s investment, combined with Rise Partners’ ongoing investment in the North River Commerce Center, brings the total investment in the former DuPont property to more than $150 million. This is a prime example of Chattanooga’s continued commitment to revitalization and job creation across the city.” – Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly

“It’s encouraging to see a company like Kordsa breathe new life into an industrial site that has played a significant role in Hamilton County’s economic history. Two of my own great grandfathers moved to Hamilton County to pursue long careers at DuPont, and our hope is that Kordsa continues the legacy of quality employment on this site in Chattanooga for many years to come.” – Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp

“TVA and EPB congratulate Kordsa, Inc. on its decision to expand operations in Hamilton County. It’s always an exciting day when we can celebrate a company’s continued commitment to growth in the region. We are proud to partner with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, City of Chattanooga, Hamilton County and the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce to support companies like Kordsa, Inc. that are creating jobs and investment in the Valley, and we celebrate this announcement together.” – John Bradley, TVA Senior Vice President of Economic Development

“This major expansion of Kordsa is a testament to the unique assets of Chattanooga. By actively engaging with the private sector, incentivizing growth, and cutting red tape, companies like Kordsa are expanding their operations, strengthening the economy and creating good-paying jobs in Hamilton County and across the state.” – Sen. Bo Watson (R-Hixson)

“Tennessee continues to be a place where both new and existing businesses can thrive. This expansion by Kordsa shows why that is so important. Not only will this significant investment further strengthen our local economy, but it will also bring 200 new jobs to our community. I appreciate Kordsa’s continued commitment to Chattanooga.” – Rep. Greg Martin (R-Hamilton County) 

“Kordsa’s investment is another great win for our local economy. The company’s expansion will create new job opportunities with livable wages for Chattanooga and Hamilton County. This investment is possible through collaborative efforts by local and state entities that strive to bring high-quality jobs to Tennessee. We’re grateful to EPB, TVA, and the Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development for their unwavering support in championing these investments. We also thank Kordsa for its continued presence and investment in Hamilton County, which will undoubtedly contribute to our regional growth.” – Steve Hiatt, Director of Existing Business Development, Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce

Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development: The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s mission is to develop strategies that help make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs. To grow and strengthen Tennessee, the department seeks to attract new corporate investment to the state and works with Tennessee companies to facilitate expansion and economic growth. Learn more at tnecd.com.

Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce: Greater Chattanooga’s leading business association and economic development organization. Founded in 1887, the Chattanooga Chamber is one of the first 40 chambers in the United States. Membership includes some 1,800 companies, employing an estimated 100,000 people. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has accredited the Chattanooga Chamber with five stars, the highest possible.

Chattanooga Chamber Foundation: Separate but related entity established in 1969 for economic development, which it carries out through Chattanooga Climbs, a public-private partnership.

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