New London, N.C.-based Fiberon LLC is building a 500,000-square-foot manufacturing plant that will create more than 300 jobs in Columbia, Tenn., to produce polyethylene decking and composite cladding.
The facility under construction on a 130-acre parcel will feature LED lighting, energy-efficient windows and energy-efficient technology like chillers and air compressors.
Also, the production lines will have the latest programming for continuous improvement and automation for increased safety and efficiency.
An on-site recycling facility will convert baled plastic waste into pellets for Fiberon products.
Founded in 1997, Fiberon manufactures wood-alternative decking, railing and cladding and also provides products like lighting and outdoor furniture for a complete outdoor experience.
With estimated sales of $235 million, Fiberon ranks 21st among North American pipe, profile and tubing producers, according to Plastics News' latest ranking.
The company's PE wood composite decking contains a minimum of 94 percent recycled content while its PVC decking is made from virgin material.
Fiberon's PE decking lines are Concordia Horizon, Concordia Symmetry, Sanctuary, Good Life and ArmorGuard.
"The PE decking is tremendously popular. It's more than 75 percent of the market for wood alternatives," Fiberon Senior Product Manager Jim Stange told Plastics News earlier this year.
The new facility in Columbia will increase availability of Fiberon product for channel partners and help them meet increased demand for outdoor living products.
Production is scheduled to begin in late 2024. The 300 new jobs include office positions in addition to manufacturing.
Fiberon was acquired by Fortune Brands Home & Security Inc. (FBHS) in a $470 million deal and is now part of its doors and security division.
"Fortune Brands Home & Security has built its foundation on enhancing the home — and Fiberon decking is a key part of that," Brett Finley, president of the FBHS division, said in a news release. "Since joining Fortune Brands in 2018, Fiberon has grown substantially and we're excited to break ground on our newest facility right here in Columbia."
A year after acquiring Fiberon, FBHS expanded production and added employees at its PVC decking manufacturing plant in Meridian, Idaho, to reach more customers in the West Coast region.