South Raleigh News

Governor Roy Cooper announced that Cedar Direct, LLC, a lumber distributor, plans to establish new distribution operations in Rutherford County. The company will invest $925,000 and create 20 jobs in Spindale.

Governor Cooper stated, “Cedar Direct is setting up operations in Rutherford County at a time when the spirit of collaboration and resiliency is on full display. This decision by Cedar Direct provides new economic opportunities for a skilled and hardworking people.”

Cedar Direct specializes in distributing cedar and specialty lumber to wholesalers and suppliers. The Spindale facility will be the company's third location, offering various boards, lumber, and timber products.

Dale Hatfield, Manager of Cedar Direct, commented on the expansion: “We are happy to announce our 3rd location in Spindale, North Carolina. A big reason we chose this location is the collaborative efforts between Cedar Direct and The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.” He added that the state's progressive business environment influenced their decision.

N.C. Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders remarked on the county's industrial history: “Rutherford County has a storied history with manufacturing and industrial operations that will be a great foundation for Cedar Direct’s next phase of growth.”

The average annual wage for these new positions will be $61,800, surpassing the county's average wage of $45,030. The total payroll impact could exceed $1.2 million annually.

To support this project, a performance-based grant of $50,000 from the One North Carolina Fund has been awarded. This fund aids local governments in attracting investments but requires companies to meet job creation targets before receiving funds.

N.C. Senator Timothy D. Moffitt praised the investment: “This investment is a great signal that the Town of Spindale is open for new business.” N.C. Representative Jake Johnson also highlighted its importance: “In light of the devastation left by the storms, it is more important now than ever to expand economic opportunities in our region.”

Key partners include several state departments and local institutions such as Isothermal Community College and Rutherford County officials.