Caesarstone announces expansion

The first line of the quartz countertop manufacturing facility is expected to begin operation in April; followed by a second by the end of this year. The announcement Tuesday stated that in addition to those a second complete building that could house two more manufacturing lines will be built. This expansion, known by the code name "Project Honey," is expected to create 130 jobs in addition to the original 180 projected for the facility. No time line for its construction was released.

"We are delighted Caesarstone has chosen to expand in Belfast Commerce Centre in Richmond Hill," said Derrick Smith, chairman of the Development Authority of Bryan County, in a press release issued by Gov. Nathan Deal's office.

"By initiating expansion plans before even opening the facility in Bryan County, it demonstrates how strong Caesarstone's business is and further confirms the park is a strategic location for internationally headquartered companies seeking access to U.S. markets. Both the original project and the planned

expansion are a result of collaboration at the local level with the city of Richmond Hill, Bryan County Board of Commissioners, and Development Authority of Bryan County working with the private landowner, TerraPointe, to create new jobs and investment in the community. We also appreciate the Georgia Department of Economic Development and Georgia Power's assistance with the projects," Smith said.

The Israeli-based company first announced the construction of its Bryan County facility two years ago. The facility is the company's first to be built outside of Israel.

Company CEO Yos Shiran, during the November 2013 groundbreaking for the facility, said the United States and North America are the fastest-growing markets for Caesarstone, and that led the company to locate a manufacturing facility in this country. After that decision was made, thorough research led them to choose Richmond Hill as the location.

"Caesarstone has continued to invest in Richmond Hill and in Georgia's advanced manufacturing sector since it located to Georgia over a year ago," said Chris Carr, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. "This newest expansion underscores how our business ties with key international regions, coupled with one of the fastest growing ports in the U.S., can help leading companies such as Caesarstone stay competitive in the global marketplace."

The plant is the first to be built in the Belfast Commerce Centre located on land recently annexed into the city Richmond Hill and developed by TerraPoint, the real estate development arm of Rayonier.