North Raleigh Today

Governor Josh Stein announced that Barrier Fencing Supply Company will create 151 jobs in North Carolina with a $15 million investment to establish a headquarters and manufacturing center in Columbus County. The company, which offers aluminum and vinyl fences to residential and commercial markets, aims to bring a significant portion of its manufacturing back to the United States.

“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 started as a fencing installation business but has since transitioned into supplying its own products nationwide. The new facility in Columbus County will house both the company's headquarters and manufacturing operations.

“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 highlighted North Carolina's strengths as an ideal location 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. From our outstanding transportation networks and quality infrastructure to our skilled and available workforce, North Carolina offers everything a manufacturer needs to succeed.”

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

A performance-based grant of $275,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will support Barrier Fencing's project. This fund assists local governments in attracting economic investments by providing financial assistance 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. “We welcome these new jobs and further private-sector investment to our region.”

N.C. Senator Bill Rabon expressed appreciation for collaborative efforts supporting Barrier Fencing during its site selection process: “Many state, regional, and local partners worked hard behind the scenes... I appreciate this collaborative teamwork very much, and our community looks forward to supporting the company as they establish operations in Columbus County.”

The project involved partnerships with various entities including 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 region organizations, Columbus County government bodies, and economic development commissions.