Specialty Textiles Inc. receives expansion grant

In Kings Mountain, N.C., city council members awarded Specialty Textiles Inc. (STI), a local textile goods manufacturer, a $15,000 grant to support its planned expansion in the community. The expansion will bring an estimated 62 new jobs and $5 million in taxable investment into Kings Mountain. Mayor Rick Murphrey cited Kings Mountain assets, such as a skilled workforce, low utility costs, a great quality of life and proximity to Interstate 85 and an international airport, as reasons businesses are choosing to relocate or expand in the area. (Steag Energy Services LLC and AT&T also plan to expand production or locate facilities in the area.) STI has bucked economic trends, remaining stable despite the collapse of many other North Carolina textile companies in recent years. John Kay, president of STI, says the company has already hired people to fill half of the new jobs in Kings Mountain.