Wednesday, James Hardie announced the creation of 200 jobs as part of the global building materials company’s expansion plans at its Prattville manufacturing plant.
According to the governor’s office, the growth project will double the size of the facility to increase the company’s manufacturing capacity.
Once the company fills the newly created positions, the 103-acre site located in Prattville’s South Industrial Park will have a 405-member workforce.
In a statement, Gov. Kay Ivey celebrated James Hardie’s expansion and noted that its growth plan was additional proof that large-scale companies are thriving in Alabama.
“I’m very pleased that James Hardie is pursuing growth plans that will create 200 new jobs at its Alabama manufacturing center,” said Ivey. “This significant expansion project shows the world that another world-class company is thriving in our state. This growth will solidify James Hardie’s presence in Prattville, and I know we can work together to create a bright future for the community.”
The Prattville City Council and Mayor Bill Gillespie, Jr. recently approved an expansion agreement with James Hardie, which enabled the investment to come to fruition.
“James Hardie’s partnership with the city of Prattville is a true testament to our community’s high-quality local natural resources, infrastructure and workforce,” stated Gillespie. “An investment of this size shows that the world’s leading fiber cement manufacturer is committed to Prattville. This industrial expansion is about community partnership and providing citizens with high caliber employment while enhancing the quality of life for all.”
Around 83% of the Chicago-based cement manufacturing company’s raw materials are purchased within 100 miles of its plant, which serves to support local businesses and minimizes the facility’s carbon footprint.
Sean Gadd, president of North America for James Hardie Building Products, asserted that the growth project displayed the company’s long-term commitment to the community and the state of Alabama.
“James Hardie is proud of our strong continued partnership with the state of Alabama, the city of Prattville, Mayor Gillespie and city council. We especially want to thank Governor Kay Ivey, Mayor Gillespie, the Autauga County Commission and state Sen. Clyde Chambliss Jr. for their vision and support,” stated Gadd. “We look forward to driving economic development and creating new jobs in the community as we continue our mission to transform the way the world builds.”
In 2017, James Hardie announced plans for its state-of-the-art building products plant in Alabama as part of a $220 million project.
Alabama Department of Commerce secretary Greg Canfield advised that the company’s expansion would serve to grow and support the local economy.
“James Hardie’s decision to launch a major expansion project at its advanced production center in Prattville will bring more high-paying jobs and new opportunities to people in the area,” noted Canfield. “In addition, this high-impact growth project once again shows how our teamwork approach to economic development leads to valuable partnerships with great companies from all around the world.”
James Hardie’s Prattville site will continue to produce the high-demand plank, panel and trim products utilized for homes throughout the South.
In addition to its economic contributions, the company has displayed its commitment to corporate citizenship through donations to local fire and police departments, contributions to school programs and local foundations benefiting underserved families.
State Sen. Clyde Chambliss (R-Prattville) recognized James Hardie for its dedication to the success of the local community.
“It was obvious when James Hardie was looking at building a plant in our community that they wanted to be a part of our community — not just in our community. They have excelled in business development as well as community involvement,” proclaimed Chambliss. “The upcoming expansion will provide much-needed, good-paying jobs to our citizens, and I know that James Hardie will continue to be a great employer and community partner for decades to come.”
Autauga County Commission chairman Jay Thompson highlighted the local and state government’s successful partnership with the global materials company.
“Collaboration and teamwork are imperative in creating a strong business environment that fosters economic growth,” said Thompson. “On behalf of the Autauga County Commission, we are proud to partner with the Alabama Department of Commerce and the city of Prattville in support of companies like James Hardie that are creating job opportunities for our citizens and continuing to grow their investment in Autauga County.”
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
