Intertape investing $26 million in new South Carolina plant

Intertape Polymer Group Inc. plans to relocate its Columbia, S.C. manufacturing operations within the same region.

The Montreal-based manufacturer of pressure sensitive and water activated tapes, polyolefin films, woven fabrics and packaging systems, is investing $26 million in the new Richmond County facility.

The relocation process and subsequent shutdown of the existing Columbia facility is expected to occur over a two year period and be completed in the first half of 2015, the company said in a press statement.

The old facility dates back to the 1960’s, the company said, and “is not compatible with the design of the new manufacturing equipment being purchased.”

“We anticipate annual productivity gains and energy savings in excess of $13 million starting in the first half of 2015 with the first full year effects to be realized in 2016,” said Gregory Yull, President and CEO of Intertape. “The new facility will also allow us to enhance our position in a highly competitive industry. Finally, we are particularly pleased with how this initiative will maximize safety for our employees and lower the impact of our operations on the environment.”

Headquartered in Montreal and Bradenton, Fla., Intertape employs approximately 1,800 employees with operations in 16 locations, including 10 manufacturing facilities in North America and one in Europe.