North Raleigh Today

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

“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, which serves clients across the United States, started as a fencing installation company but has since expanded into supplying its own products. The new facility in Columbus County will house both its headquarters and a manufacturing plant, allowing the company to return much of its manufacturing activity to the U.S.

“Our aim is to generate employment, assist those in need, and to make a meaningful difference in the community,” said Tony Bowling, CEO for 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 commented on North Carolina's appeal: “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 compared with Columbus County's current average wage of $44,081.

A performance-based grant of $275,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will support Barrier Fencing's project. This fund aids local governments in attracting economic investment by providing financial assistance contingent upon job creation and capital investment targets being met.

N.C. House Majority Leader Brenden Jones welcomed the development: “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.”

Senator Bill Rabon appreciated collaborative efforts: “Many state, regional, and local partners worked hard behind the scenes to support the Barrier Fencing team during its site selection process.”

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