300 New Jobs Coming to Laurens

The ZF Group announced on Wednesday it will expand its operations in Laurens County.

The $80 million investment is expected to generate 300 jobs.

“ZF is pleased to make this announcement and is excited about the opportunities it represents for the resurging North American market,” said Dr. Ludger Reckmann, CEO of ZF Transmissions LLC. “As ZF plays a stronger role in delivering efficiency-enhancing products for North America, the encouraging climate and strong resources in South Carolina help make us more competitive.”

The group said the expansion is due to the increase in demand from the automotive market.

ZF first announced its new manufacturing operations in the county in July 2010. At that time the group said it would invest $350 million investment and 900 new jobs.

“We celebrate ZF’s decision to create 300 more jobs at the company’s Laurens County facility," said Gov. Nikki Haley. "This facility will be a game changer for one of our state’s rural counties. It also shows we are doing the right things to spur economic development."

According to the S.C. Department of Commerce, automotive continues to be a leading sector having recruited more than $400 million in investment for the state and bringing more than 800 jobs.

“ZF’s decision to expand on its previous investment is a big win for South Carolina and bolsters our automotive sector," said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce. "In fact, this is the sixth automotive announcement we’ve had in the past two months."

ZF is currently hiring for positions as they are needed. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact Human Technologies Inc at www.htijobs.com.