Carthage Specialty Paperboard Investing $2 Million in Renovations

 

According to a report this past week by WYNC (Watertown, N.Y., USA) there's good news to report from local Carthage Specialty Paperboard. The company plans to invest more than $2 million in renovations to upgrade its manufacturing facility and increase product quality and gain production efficiencies.

In addition, the manufacturer will receive a $400,000 performance-based grant from Empire State Development to buy new machinery and equipment. In return, Carthage Specialty Paperboard has promised to create 10 new jobs and retain 70 current employees. The state funds will be disbursed once project milestones are met, according to Empire State Development.

Carthage Specialty Paperboard CEO Pat Purdy told WYNC that the state shared the good news a couple of weeks ago and the company has already begun working on the upgrades.

Purdy says the plant has hired back 10 workers who had been previously laid off. He said it will take about a year to purchase new equipment, install it and getting it running. Purdy also wanted to acknowledge the local help the company received from the Jefferson County Industrial Development Agency, elected officials, the community, and employees.

JCIDA CEO Don Alexander issued the following statement:

"This is a critical step in assuring the future health and viability of this very important employer in our county. The company's nearly 80 employees and their families can breathe a little easier today. However, more needs to be done. Representatives of all of the stakeholders continue to interact with the company in attempting to address all of their issues. It is hoped that through this interaction, we will not only be able to assist in sustaining the company but provide for ways wherein the company can actually grow its presence in our community."

Carthage Specialty Paperboard manufactures picture frame mats, protective seals for the pharmacy industry, and other packaging products.