Continental investing in its textile reinforcement production operations in southeastern United States
More than $9 million to be invested in textile reinforcement operations in Georgia
Investment will optimize textile manufacturing footprint and increase operating efficiencies
FAIRLAWN, Ohio, November 15, 2017. Technology company Continental announced it will invest more than $9 million in its textile reinforcement business and streamline operations in its Georgia operations.
Continental operates a facility in Porterdale, Georgia, under its ContiTech Division, which produces single end yarns for technical reinforcement applications that adhere to specific rubber compounds, such as hoses and tires. At the end of 2018, the Porterdale operations will relocate to Continental's Aldora Mills facility, located approximately 45 miles south in Barnesville, Georgia.
"The consolidation of these facilities will allow us to maximize our efficiencies and optimize our manufacturing footprint," said Jim Hill, president of Continental 's ContiTech North America operations. "This will enable us to drive synergies and combine some operations under one roof."
With the relocation of the Porterdale operations, employees will be given the opportunity to transfer to the Barnesville location , or if eligible, elect to retire. The Barnesville location, which currently employs just over 200 people, will grow by an additional 106 employees, including those who transfer from Porterdale, as well as new hires.
During the consolidation of the two facilities , Continental will invest more than $9 million to modernize equipment and improve efficiencies and production at the Barnesville location.
"This future-orientated investment allows us to ensure continuity in our business as well as extend our long-term viability. We are committed to remaining in yarn and fabric production to support our North American manufacturing operations for our customers and associates," said Hill.
The Aldora Mills facility, located in Barnesville, Georgia , opened in 1888 as a cotton mill. The facility began producing tire cord in the early 1920s , and was purchased by Continental in 1986. Today Aldora Mills produces tire cord fabric used for Continental and General brand passenger and light truck tires.