Columbia, S.C. – The Carlstar Group LLC, a global manufacturer of specialty wheels and tires, is investing in its existing facility to expand process and production capacity, which will accommodate the company’s continued growth. Carlstar is investing $6.9 million in the project and plans to create 43 new jobs.
 
Headquartered in Franklin, Tenn., The Carlstar Group is a global manufacturer of original equipment and aftermarket specialty tires and wheels for the agriculture, construction, lawn and garden, ATV/UTV and high-speed trailer markets. With a diverse portfolio of solutions offered under several leading brands of tires and wheels, including Carlisle®, ITP®, Cragar® and more, The Carlstar Group employs more than 3,500 associates across five countries. 
 
The company’s South Carolina operation, located at 23 Windham Boulevard in Aiken, S.C., will undergo significant site improvements, including investments in capacity and equipment, as well as the addition of new talent, in order to meet increasing demand. Hiring for the new positions is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2017, and interested applicants should visit the company’s online interactive jobs portal. 
 
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved a $100,000 Set Aside grant to Aiken County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building improvements.  
 

Quotes

“Our Aiken, S.C. facility is part of the strategic, long-term growth for our company. This investment in people, processes and production will not only help strengthen our ability to provide value for our customers, but also strengthen and grow our ties to the Aiken County community.” –The Carlstar Group CEO John Salvatore
 
“This investment by The Carlstar Group in expanding its footprint in South Carolina is a tremendous example of how companies of all sizes can thrive here. It’s because of companies like The Carlstar Group that our automotive industry continues to grow and is considered one of the best in the world.” –Gov. Henry McMaster
 

South Carolina has built an international reputation as a leader in manufacturing, and today’s announcement of Carlstar’s expansion is a further testament to that. I congratulate this company on all their success and can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.”–Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

 
“The S.C. Ports Authority is pleased to support the expanding needs of The Carlstar Group through the Port of Charleston. The Port looks forward to serving their customers’ needs through our deepwater harbor and modern, capable facilities.” –S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome
 
“We are excited about Carlstar expanding in Aiken County. We know expansions within corporations are extremely competitive, and we see this as a validation of Aiken County’s hard work and partnerships with our existing industries, like Carlstar. We are grateful for them and the jobs they provide for our citizens.” –Aiken County Council Chairman Ronnie Young
 
“We congratulate and thank Carlstar for their expansion in Aiken County. Also, congratulations to Chairman Young and the rest of Aiken County Council for the tireless work they put into making Aiken County a great place to live, work and play. Since 1984, the Economic Development Partnership has been pleased to work with companies like Carlstar and Aiken County Council to make these projects become reality.” –Economic Development Partnership Board Chairman Gary Stooksbury