Shaw Expansion Brings Up to 200 New Jobs to Calhoun

CALHOUN – Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue announced today that Shaw Industries Group, Inc., will expand its manufacturing operations in Calhoun, creating up to 200 new jobs.

“It’s great news for Georgia that one of our longtime manufacturers is planning for future growth in the state,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “It is a testament to the strength of our workforce and infrastructure that, even during this economic downturn, Shaw still finds Georgia the best place to invest in its future.”

Shaw plans an overall expansion of operations within its carpet division and will occupy its formerly idled facility in Calhoun, investing in equipment and infrastructure to increase the company’s capacity to process filament yarn, which is used in residential carpet products. Shaw expects the facility’s expansion to be completed by mid-2010, in time to meet customer demand and to allow for future growth in this segment of its business. 

“Our commitment to our customers and future growth drives our long-range planning,” said Vance Bell, Shaw Industries CEO.   "This expansion of operations, which is located in a community and state we’ve had great experiences with, will give us the best competitive advantage and position for the long term.”

Georgia’s top-ranked Quick Start program will provide customized workforce training as a key part of the state’s support for Shaw’s expansion. Since 1967, Georgia Quick Start has delivered nearly 6,000 training projects helping qualified companies assess, select and train employees for successful startups and expansions.

Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Regional Project Manager Brooks Mathis assisted the company with its location, as did the Development Authority of Gordon County.

“We appreciate the investment and the large number of jobs that will be created in our community. The team effort put together by our local representatives, the State of Georgia and Shaw Industries has made this project possible. The future is bright because of the partnership we have with Shaw,” said Larry Roye, Chairman of the Development Authority of Gordon County.

Previous Shaw employees in the community who have been displaced over the past few months due to economic conditions will be given the first opportunity to fill the new positions. 

About Shaw Industries Group

Shaw Industries Group, Inc., a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., is the world’s largest carpet manufacturer and a leading floor covering provider with $5 billion in annual sales and approximately 26,000 associates. Headquartered in Dalton, Ga., the company manufactures and distributes carpeting, rugs, hardwood, laminate and ceramic tile for residential and commercial applications worldwide. A recognized leader in environmental stewardship, Shaw has implemented hundreds of sustainability initiatives and cradle to cradle design solutions, collectively termed the Shaw Green Edge. For more information, visit www.shawfloors.com.

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