North Carolina Construction News staff writer
MST Rebar Inc., a Toronto-based supplier of fiberglass rebar, will invest more than $15 million to open its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Bladenboro, Bladen County, creating 83 new jobs, Gov. Josh Stein announced Tuesday.
The company will operate a 56,000-sq. ft. plant capable of producing up to 75 miles of fiberglass rebar per day. MST Rebar’s products are corrosion-resistant, lighter than steel, and designed to last longer than the concrete they reinforce, making them well-suited for large-scale infrastructure projects such as the Alligator River Bridge.
“MST-BAR is a revolutionary industrial product,” said David Richardson, president of MST Rebar. “It’s stronger than steel, lasts longer, reduces workplace injuries and has a very low carbon footprint. We are proud to bring our technology to North Carolina.”
Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley said the company’s decision reflects confidence in North Carolina’s skilled manufacturing workforce and business climate.
The new positions will include apprentice machinists, inspectors, and engineers. While wages will vary, the average annual salary for the new jobs will be $54,361, above the Bladen County average of $46,867. The project could generate more than $4.5 million in annual payroll for the region.
MST Rebar USA LLC will receive a $250,000 performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund to help establish the facility. Companies must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment.
“This is outstanding news for Bladen County and the entire state,” said Sen. Brent Jackson. “I want to thank the economic developers and officials who helped recruit such an incredible company.”
“MST Rebar could have invested anywhere, but they chose Bladen County,” said Rep. William D. Brisson. “We look forward to welcoming them and building a long-term partnership to support growth in our community.”
Partners supporting the project include the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, North Carolina Department of Transportation, Golden LEAF Foundation, Bladen Community College, and local governments and economic development organizations in Bladen County.