OPW, a global leader in designing and manufacturing retail fueling, fluid handling and car wash system solutions, announced Monday they will be adding more than 80 jobs at its Smithfield location in an expansion that will also include $7.78 million in capital equipment over the coming two years.
“Nothing speaks to the quality of Johnston County’s business climate more powerfully than a major manufacturer that’s growing, investing and hiring here,” said Jeff Carver, chairman of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners. “We’re pleased to partner with OPW in supporting this important expansion, which furthers our efforts to create a dynamic, diversified and globally-engaged economy.”
OPW made the announcement during Monday’s meeting of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners in Smithfield, during which the board unanimously approved an Economic Development Incentives Grant for OPW.
OPW is part of Dover Corporation [NYSE: “DOV”], based in Downers Grove, Ill.
Its Johnston County operations started 10 years ago with 80 employees. It currently employs a 205-person workforce. Located near Johnston Regional Airport on US70 Business West, the local facility currently designs, manufactures and sells retail fueling products, such as below ground piping and containment systems, as well as underground storage tank equipment.
In 2018, it will expand to manufacture its above ground retail fueling equipment, including fuel nozzles, swivels and breakaways. OPW’s customers include leading convenience-store chains.
“OPW is excited about growing its manufacturing base in Johnston County,” said Kevin Long, President of OPW. “This move will allow OPW to manufacture its retail fueling products – above and below ground – in one location, helping us more efficiently deliver complete Retail Fueling packages to customers.”
The new jobs created in Smithfield will range from production workers to office personnel.
Johnston Community College (JCC) will provide free, customized training for the company’s new hires.
Johnston County will support OPW’s expansion through a two-year package of performance-based grants beginning in 2018. The expansion is part of a larger vision the company has for its Johnston County operations that will likely involve additional capital investment and job growth over the coming five years.
In addition to the Johnston County Board of Commissioners and JCC, OPW’s expansion announcement was facilitated with assistance from the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, the North Carolina Community College System and the Johnston County Economic Development Office (JCEDO).
“County leaders worked with OPW and our state partners for the better part of a year to meet the technical, financial and HR requirements necessary for this important project’s success,” said Cheryl Oliver, chairman of the Johnston County Economic Development Advisory Board. “We’re proud OPW chose Johnston County as the backdrop for its continued growth, innovation and market leadership.”
