Shaw: Ex-Yarn Plant to Make Engineered Hardwoods

Dalton, GA, March 20, 2006--Shaw announced earlier this month its plans to convert a former yarn plant in South Pittsburgh, Tennessee, into a manufacturing facility for engineered hardwood flooring. The plant, which has been idle for about three years, will be fitted to manufacture pre-finished, engineered hardwood flooring. Significant capital investments are being made in preparation for operations to begin in early summer. “The pre-finished engineered category is the fastest-growing segment of the hardwood market,” says David Wilkerson, vice president of Shaw Hard Surfaces. “We are installing the latest innovations in hardwood manufacturing, and our product line will feature technological differentiations that will benefit retailers, installers, and consumers.” Hardwood products will include 3 ¼" strip and 5" plank flooring styles. Wilkerson says there will be a great deal of depth to the product line, with a wide variety of species represented. “We will have 5" and ¾" thicknesses, which are unsurpassed for stability and ease of installation,” Wilkerson adds. “The ¾" product is superior to solid hardwood and will be especially beneficial for builders.” Jeff Williams, Shaw’s director of hard surface manufacturing, notes that the move will position Shaw as a true manufacturer and distributor of hardwood flooring. “We feel it’s the right move at the right time,” Williams says. “A lot of research and planning went into this effort, and we believe we’ll become a leader in this product category.” The plant will employ 90 people when it first opens, and potential expansion plans could see the number rise to 200.

Related Topics:Shaw Industries Group, Inc.

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