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Refractory Leader HarbisonWalker to Bolster Fulton's Economy with $13.9M Investment and 11 New Jobs

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Published on October 31, 2024
Refractory Leader HarbisonWalker to Bolster Fulton's Economy with $13.9M Investment and 11 New JobsSource: Facebook/Missouri Department of Economic Development

HarbisonWalker International, a key player in refractory products and part of the Calderys Group, is investing $13.9 million in Fulton for expansion. This move will create 11 new jobs in the area.

The investment will add a new manufacturing facility for lightweight monolithic refractories, increasing production capacity by nearly 60%. This facility will feature a new furnace and advanced robotic packaging systems. The production will utilize local clay deposits to create specialized Greenlite aggregate products used in high-temperature industrial applications, according to a release from the Missouri Department of Economic Development.

Governor Mike Parson stated, "We're excited to see an innovative and world-class company like HWI continuing to invest in Fulton." Ross Wilkin from HarbisonWalker International expressed pride in the company's 100-year presence in the community and enthusiasm for the expansion. The new positions are expected to offer salaries above the county's average wage, contributing to the local economy, as stated by the Missouri Department of Economic Development.

Support from the Missouri Works program shows state backing for HarbisonWalker International's new manufacturing facility, which will boost production capacity and create jobs in Missouri. "This project represents a significant step forward for our community," said Kim Barnes, President of the Fulton Area Development Foundation. HarbisonWalker International has 25 manufacturing sites and 20 distribution centers in the Americas, along with North America's largest refractory industry research facility. The new facility is expected to be completed by July 2025, further expanding HarbisonWalker International presence in the region, as reported by the Missouri Department of Economic Development.