Governor Josh Stein has announced that TMG & Haartz Solutions LLC, a new joint venture in the automotive supply industry, will create 125 jobs over the next five years in Rutherford County. The company plans to invest $51 million in Bostic to establish an industrial facility supplying synthetic leather materials for original equipment manufacturers such as Mercedes Benz, Volvo, BMW, GM, Toyota, and Ford.
“North Carolina’s robust network of suppliers to the automotive industry grows stronger today with TMG Haartz Solutions’ decision to locate in our state,” stated Governor Stein. He emphasized the state’s workforce training programs as a key factor in attracting manufacturing companies.
TMG Haartz Solutions is formed by two family-owned companies with extensive experience in the automotive sector. The Haartz Corporation, based in Acton, Massachusetts since 1907, specializes in convertible toppings and interior surface materials. TMG Automotive (TMG), part of the TMG Group from Portugal, focuses on synthetic leathers for automotive interiors.
The new venture will concentrate on producing highly engineered synthetic leather materials for various car interior components. The project aims to enhance automotive design while maintaining environmental stewardship. It will be located at a site previously used by Milliken Golden Valley plant.
“Our journey began with a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation,” said Isabel Furtado from TMG Group and TMG Automotive. She highlighted the relationship between Gonçalves and Haartz families as being built on trust and shared values.
Eric Haartz from The Haartz Corporation noted their collaboration’s evolution from a business relationship into a deeper bond that fosters innovation.
Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley praised North Carolina’s position as a leading manufacturing state in the Southeast United States. He pointed out that North Carolina offers essential elements for success like transportation networks and skilled workers.
The average salary for these new positions is expected to be $64,218 compared to Rutherford County’s average wage of $46,673. The project’s development will be partially supported by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) approved by the Economic Investment Committee. Over its 12-year term, it is estimated to boost North Carolina’s economy by more than $352 million with potential reimbursements up to $1.463 million contingent upon job creation targets being met.
Senator Tim Moffitt expressed satisfaction with this growth opportunity for family-owned businesses within North Carolina while Representative Paul Scott welcomed both new jobs and investment into Rutherford County.
The announcement marks another milestone since January 1st under Governor Stein’s leadership towards over $16 billion of capital investment creating upwards of 18 thousand jobs across North Carolina through business expansions or new projects.
