“To support the growing demand for its carpet and rug collections, Mohawk has purchased a fibre plant in Bridgeport, Alabama,” said Brian Carson, president of Mohawk Flooring North America. “We are impressed with the Bridgeport plant’s team and manufacturing capabilities, and we look forward to growing the plant to produce innovative fibres into the future.”

Mohawk is investing to modernise and upgrade the equipment and the building in the Jackson County city, according to the Alabama Department of Commerce. Mohawk has established its initial workforce with individuals already employed at the plant and is actively recruiting people to satisfy present staffing needs. The company anticipates increasing its Bridgeport workforce as ongoing investments expand the plant’s manufacturing capacity.

Finding new owner

Jackson County officials said the revival of the fibre plant represents a major economic boom to Bridgeport, a community with a population of around 2,400. “We are excited to welcome Mohawk to Bridgeport,” said Mayor Bubba Hughes. “We are eager to work with them to make their move a success.”

In January, the Beaulieu Group announced plans to shut down most of the operations at the Bridgeport factory, where it extruded nylon, polyester and polypropylene fibres and provided heat set and cabling for fibres. The plant, open since 1987, was the city’s second largest manufacturing employer. Beaulieu also launched a search for a buyer, and received a helping hand from local leaders and a host of economic development agencies.

Supporting employment growth

“This transaction by Mohawk, which supports employment growth in Jackson County, was facilitated by teamwork and a determination to find a new owner for a manufacturing facility that has been critical to the vitality of its community,” said Greg Canfield, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “Mohawk’s investment will ensure that the plant – and those jobs – have a future in Jackson County for years to come.”

Mohawk Industries is one of the largest flooring manufacturer with a complete line of products including carpet, rugs, ceramic tile, laminate, wood, sheet vinyl and luxury vinyl tile. Mohawk operates manufacturing facilities in 11 states and 15 countries, and the company’s products are sold in more than 160 nations.

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