Canadian company Cardon Rehabilitation & Medical Equipment USA, LLC has chosen Lenoir County, North Carolina for its U.S. headquarters and manufacturing facility expansion as confirmed by Governor Josh Stein, investing more than $4 million and adding 20 new jobs to the local economy. This move is a significant boost for Kinston, marking the celebration of Cardon's 50-year milestone in the healthcare industry. The manufacturer of customizable powered treatment tables and exercise equipment is known for its commitment to quality and service, and the new 60,000-square-foot operation aims to meet the needs of its growing American customer base.
"Cardon’s investment in Lenoir County is a win for our state’s manufacturing sector and a testament to the strengths of our communities and workforce," Governor Stein stated in an announcement on the North Carolina Office of the Governor. Mardig Sevadijian, CEO of the company, expressed his excitement for the new venture, saying, "Our vision is to scale up the production of our healthcare equipment, build a long-term home for our employees, and create a workplace culture where people feel safe, valued, and empowered to contribute to the continued success of our company." The annual average salary for the new positions will approximate the local average wage of $48,683.
The economic development is facilitated by a performance-based grant of $60,000 from the One North Carolina Fund, which requires companies to meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment, and necessitates a matching from local governments. "North Carolina's reputation as a top state for manufacturing continues to attract innovative companies like Cardon,” N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley told governor.nc.gov. The sentiment is echoed by local officials who see this move as a sign of Lenoir County's ongoing progress and potential.
Key partners in the project include a range of educational and development organizations such as the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, Lenoir Community College, and North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region, among others. "We welcome Cardon Rehabilitation & Medical Equipment to Kinston and look forward to the opportunities this investment will bring," N.C. Representative Chris Humphrey conveyed as per the North Carolina Office of the Governor website.
