The site of a long-abandoned furniture factory in Robbinsville is set to experience a renaissance as it transforms into a bustling manufacturing hub. This development comes with the promise of generating hundreds of jobs for the local community in Graham County.
On Tuesday, officials revealed plans for EcoKing Solutions, a global packaging company from China, to invest $80.5 million in revitalizing the former Stanley Furniture plant that ceased operations in 2014. This facility will be dedicated to producing biodegradable paper trays and dishware, marking EcoKing’s inaugural manufacturing location in North America. For more information, see the announcement.
As per news releases from Graham County and the governor’s office, this project is anticipated to create 300 jobs initially, with the possibility of increasing to 500. Once the plant is fully operational, it will contribute over $14 million annually in payroll.
The 588,000-square-foot facility, idle for over a decade, will undergo a $21 million renovation to prepare for its new role in production. Construction is expected to start immediately.
Meggan Smith, chair of the Graham County Board of Commissioners, expressed her enthusiasm, 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 extended a warm welcome to EcoKing, noting, “We welcome EcoKing to western North Carolina, where it will find a welcoming business climate and a talented workforce.”
This initiative is spearheaded by the Mountain West Partnership, a branch of the Southwestern Commission, symbolizing nearly ten years of efforts to rejuvenate the region after downturns in the timber and furniture industries.
Robbinsville Mayor Shaun Adams, who was personally affected by the Stanley plant closure, shared his sentiments: “I am so pleased that the plant is returning to life — which will have a positive impact on this community.”
