In a significant economic development move, Linde Inc., a prominent industrial gases and engineering company, is set to establish a new air separation facility in Garysburg, Northampton County. Announced by Governor Josh Stein, this project represents an investment exceeding $75 million and is expected to create 20 new jobs. The new plant will focus on producing essential gases such as argon, nitrogen, and oxygen, serving diverse industries including healthcare, electronics, and food preservation. The strategic location in Northampton County Commerce Park positions Linde to enhance its distribution capabilities to nearby customers.
Governor Stein highlighted North Carolina’s strong transportation infrastructure and skilled workforce as key factors in attracting Linde to the state. Linde’s Vice President for the East Region, Todd Lawson, emphasized the location’s proximity to customers and the support from Northampton County as critical considerations for this investment. This facility aims to strengthen Linde’s presence in North Carolina, boosting its supply network for merchant gases.
The state anticipates an annual payroll impact of more than $1.75 million from the new jobs. Financial support for Linde’s expansion comes from a performance-based grant of $60,000 from the One North Carolina Fund, designed to assist local governments in attracting economic investments. This grant requires Linde to meet specific job creation and capital investment benchmarks to receive funds, with local government participation also mandated.
North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley remarked that Linde’s decision underscores the vitality of the region’s life sciences ecosystem. Local representatives, including N.C. Representative Rodney D. Pierce and N.C. Senator Bobby Hanig, expressed support and optimism for the project’s positive impact on the local economy. The initiative is backed by several state and local partners, including the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, and the Golden LEAF Foundation, among others.
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