A significant revitalization effort is underway in Robbinsville, where an unused furniture factory is set to transform into a bustling manufacturing hub, promising hundreds of new job opportunities in Graham County.
The plans were officially announced this week with the introduction of EcoKing Solutions, a Chinese-owned global packaging firm. The company is investing $80.5 million to renovate the former Stanley Furniture site, which has been closed since 2014. The revamped plant will focus on the production of biodegradable paper trays and dishware, marking EcoKing’s inaugural manufacturing venture in North America. More details can be found in the official announcement.
According to information from Graham County authorities and the governor’s office, the initiative will create 300 jobs initially, with the potential to grow to 500 positions. Upon reaching full operation, the site is projected to contribute over $14 million annually in payroll.
The long-dormant 588,000-square-foot facility is set to receive a $21 million renovation to prepare it for its new role. Construction activities are expected to commence immediately.
Graham County Board of Commissioners Chair, Meggan Smith, expressed enthusiasm about the development, stating, “This marks a monumental win for our county. We’re bringing hundreds of family-sustaining jobs to our residents and breathing life back into our industrial spaces.”
Governor Josh Stein also welcomed the development, highlighting the region’s conducive business environment and skilled workforce: “We welcome EcoKing to western North Carolina, where it will find a welcoming business climate and a talented workforce.”
The project reflects the efforts of the Mountain West Partnership, under the Southwestern Commission, which has been working for nearly ten years to rejuvenate the local economy following downturns in the timber and furniture industries.
Robbinsville Mayor Shaun Adams, who experienced the original plant closure firsthand, sees the development as a personal triumph: “I am so pleased that the plant is returning to life — which will have a positive impact on this community.”
