Approximately $30 million investment to create 51 new jobs; operations expected to begin mid-2026
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Fenner Precision Polymers (Fenner), a global leader in reinforced polymer and composite technologies, has selected Cherokee County, South Carolina, for its newest manufacturing operation. The company’s approximately $30 million investment will create 51 new jobs, further strengthening South Carolina’s advanced manufacturing footprint and supporting economic growth in the state’s rural communities.
Founded in 1861, Fenner is a member of the Michelin Group of companies and specializes in high-performance composite solutions, including coated and calendered fabrics, shaped flexible components, belts, and hoses. Fenner’s products support a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, material handling, food processing, aerospace, transportation, and more.
Fenner’s new 113,000-square-foot facility, located at 1 Commerce Drive in Gaffney, will expand the company’s production capabilities while providing the flexibility needed to adapt to evolving customer and market demands. The operation is expected to be online in mid-2026.
“We’re investing in scalable infrastructure that aligns with our long-term vision,” said Vincent Peter, managing director of Fenner Precision Polymers. “The Gaffney site will showcase advanced coated fabric processing, applying our material science expertise to address demanding technical applications. We are excited to build a great place to work for our teams while delivering state-of-the-art capabilities for our customers. This project represents a true commitment to our sustainable, forward-looking growth strategy.”
The South Carolina Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project and awarded a $350,000 Set-Aside grant to Cherokee County to assist with building improvement costs.
“With our skilled workforce and strong business environment, South Carolina continues to attract companies like Fenner Precision Polymers,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “We are proud to celebrate another win for rural South Carolina and applaud Fenner for this significant investment in Cherokee County.”
Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III emphasized the broader impact of the announcement: “South Carolina’s rural communities are a critical part of the state’s economy, and Fenner’s decision to locate in Cherokee County reflects the confidence companies have in our people and our pro-business climate. This investment and the 51 new jobs will benefit the region for years to come.”
Local leaders welcomed the project as a catalyst for continued growth.
“Fenner’s decision to expand in Cherokee County reflects the strong momentum we’re seeing across our community,” said Cherokee County Council Chairman Tim Spencer. “This investment reinforces confidence in our workforce, infrastructure, and business-friendly environment, while adding to the industrial strength and long-term prosperity of our county.”
About Fenner Precision Polymers
Fenner Precision Polymers is a Michelin Group Company and a trusted global supplier of engineered solutions for performance-critical applications. With more than 900 employees worldwide, Fenner serves clients across industries including document handling, transportation, mining, agriculture, aerospace, climate control, material handling, food processing, and manufacturing.
The company’s product families include:
- Fenner Industrial Motion
- Fenner High-Tech Coated Fabrics
- Fenner Air and Fluid Handling
Fenner’s portfolio includes coated fabrics and technical textiles, industrial and polyurethane belting, hoses, conveyor systems, composite products, pipe rehabilitation solutions, and customized bearing technologies. Brands under Fenner Precision Polymers include Fenner Drives, James Dawson, Fabri Cote, Fenlon, Hoyt, Lumsden, B-LOC, Trantorque, POWERTWIST, NinjaTek, and others.
For more information, visit fenner.com.
