Italian Manufacturer Plans Upstate Plant

Alupress AG, an Italian aluminum casting company that serves the auto industry, announced Thursday it will locate its new production facility in neighboring Laurens County.

The $19.9 million investment is expected to generate 57 new jobs.

Alupress recently purchased Koerber LLC, now named Alupress LLC, in Laurens, and the company will open a new 30,000-square-foot aluminum castings plant. The plant will manufacture products for automotive industry clients. The new facility is expected to begin operations in 2014.

“It’s always exciting to see another international company choose to set up shop in the Palmetto State. This announcement is also another win for one of our state’s rural areas. We celebrate Alupress’ decision to invest $19.9 million and create 57 new jobs in Laurens County,” said Gov. Nikki Haley in a news release. 

Since January 2011, South Carolina has recruited more than $5 billion in capital investment and more than 8,000 jobs in the automotive-related sector. 

“South Carolina’s automotive sector continues to be a strong contributor to our economy and a force in our state’s manufacturing renaissance. When companies like Alupress AG locate operations here, it not only creates new jobs but also increases our reputation in the automotive club,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt in a news release.

The company will begin hiring for the new positions in January 2014. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should e-mail personnel@alupress.com.