TEXTILES.ORG
Graniteville Specialty Fabrics, a recognized leader in the production of specialty coatings and coated fabrics, has announced that the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce has selected their company as the 2013 Manufacturer of the Year. Recipients of the Manufacturer of the Year Award continually strive for manufacturing excellence, make a positive economic impact, remain committed to workforce development, and serve as outstanding community stewards.
“We are proud that companies like Graniteville Specialty Fabrics are located in South Carolina, advancing our state’s vital manufacturing industry. We honor them for their commitment to providing excellent jobs, giving back to the communities they operate in and producing quality products,” said Otis Rawl, president and CEO of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.
A fixture in the central Savannah River area since 1947, Graniteville Specialty Fabrics specializes in custom coated marine fabrics, military and commercial tentage, awnings, specialty technical fabrics, and consumer fabrics. In addition to product improvement initiatives, Graniteville takes a personal interest in the quality of life of each employee, aligning with the company’s health benefits provider to introduce a wellness program. By providing a clean, safe and environmentally friendly workplace and delivering profit and quality improvement for the past three years, Graniteville earned a Manufacturer of the Year Award.
“South Carolina manufacturers were particularly hard hit in a difficult economy – including Graniteville – so to receive this award is very gratifying,” said Jim Egan, president of Graniteville. “The award confirms that our commitment to quality, concern for employees, and continuous improvement efforts are on target.”
Other recipients of the Manufacturer of the Year Award include Cox Industries Inc. and Michelin North America. Award nominees include KapStone Paper & Packaging Corp., Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, Pegasus Steel, Sumter Packaging Corp. and UEC Electronics. All nominees and winners were honored before an audience of fellow manufacturers and business leaders at the Manufacturer of the Year Awards Luncheon in Columbia, S.C.