South Raleigh News

Governor Josh Stein announced that Barrier Fencing Supply Company will create 151 jobs in North Carolina with a new headquarters and manufacturing center in Columbus County. The company plans to invest $15 million in this project.

“North Carolina’s southeast region and Columbus County are a terrific place to do business,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Barrier Fencing’s project brings good jobs and welcome investment there, and the company’s decision shows once again that CEOs recognize North Carolina’s advantages as a business location.”

Barrier Fencing Supply Company, a wholesaler and distributor of fencing products, started as an installation company but soon expanded into supplying its own products. The new facility will enable the company to bring more manufacturing activities back to the United States.

“Our aim is to generate employment, assist those in need, and to make a meaningful difference in the community,” said Tony Bowling, CEO of Barrier Fencing Supply Company. “Our goals and progress will be achieved thanks to the State of North Carolina and Columbus County. We are thankful and look forward to this partnership.”

Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley highlighted North Carolina's appeal for manufacturers: “North Carolina is the number one state for manufacturing in the Southeast, so it’s only natural that Barrier Fencing would choose to expand here.”

The average salary for these new positions will be $44,114, slightly above Columbus County's current average wage of $44,081.

A grant of $275,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will support this project. The fund assists local governments in attracting economic investment by providing financial aid contingent on job creation and capital investment targets being met.

“Making products in the United States strengthens our economy, so it’s great to see Barrier Fencing choose Columbus County for their new manufacturing plant,” said N.C. House Majority Leader Brenden Jones.

N.C. Senator Bill Rabon acknowledged the teamwork involved: “Many state, regional, and local partners worked hard behind the scenes to support the Barrier Fencing team during its site selection process.”

Key partners include the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Community College System, Commerce Department’s Division of Workforce Solutions, North Carolina’s Southeast organization, Columbus County government entities.