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NEWTON, N.C. – Windak Group, a leading European supplier in the wire and cable machinery industry, has announced plans to construct a new US headquarters and production facility for Windak Inc. in Newton, North Carolina. Having maintained a successful sales, assembly, and service center in Catawba County for over 15 years and employing more than 20 staff, Windak Inc. is now poised for significant growth. The planned expansion, involving an investment of $2.5 million, will create 11 new jobs, offering an average salary of $52,172. Founded in Sweden in 1994, Windak has built a reputation for innovative cable packaging machinery solutions. The company's journey began with a comprehensive handling and packaging system developed for Volvo. Over three decades, Windak has expanded its technological offerings to include high-speed rewind lines for fiber optic cables, fully automatic spooling lines, versatile coiling lines, and advanced solutions for packaging cables into boxes or bags. Today, as North America's largest supplier of automatic packaging equipment for the cable industry, Windak serves leading global companies across 30 countries. The Newton City Council, in its meeting on March 5th, approved the sale of approximately 9.57 acres of City-owned land on Whitten Lane for Windak Inc.'s new facility, estimated to cover 25,000-30,000 square feet. The property, donated to the City in 2017 for economic development purposes, will now be the site of this pivotal project, slated for completion by the end of 2025. Dan Shelander, Managing Director of Windak Inc., expressed his enthusiasm: “This new facility marks a significant milestone for us. With our business poised for growth, this expansion will enhance our capacity to meet the increasing demand and better serve our customers in the US. We are thankful for the City's support and look forward to a prosperous future in Newton.” Newton Mayor Jerry Hodge commended the move: “Windak Group's decision to expand in Newton is a testament to our efforts in creating a business-friendly environment. Their long-term commitment is a significant boost to our local economy and aligns perfectly with our vision for industrial growth.” Frank Young, Chair of the Catawba County EDC Board of Directors, also emphasized the importance of supporting long-standing local businesses: “While new enterprises often capture attention, we value the contributions of established companies like Windak Inc. Their expansion is a prime example of how we strive to facilitate the growth of our local industries.” In addition to the City of Newton, other key partners in the project include Catawba County, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, and the Catawba County Economic Development Corporation. ### Media Contact: Catawba County Economic Development Corporation Nathan Huret 828-267-1564 nhuret@catawbacountync.gov

CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. – The Catawba County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has announced the recipients of the inaugural Catawba Future-Ready Manufacturing Grant (FRMG). The program serves as a pioneering effort to accelerate the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies among existing industries. Through a highly competitive application and review process, five Catawba County companies were selected for awards totaling $200,000: Sarstedt, Inc., Pöppelmann Plastics USA LLC, SEI Technologies, Unitape USA, and Marcal Blue Ridge Molding LLC. These companies represent a cross-section of Catawba County’s diverse manufacturing base and demonstrate a strong commitment to innovation, efficiency, and workforce advancement. The FRMG is the first program of its kind in North Carolina, created to assist manufacturers integrate Industry 4.0 and advanced automation solutions that strengthen competitiveness and long-term resiliency. County leaders recognized the growing need for companies to adopt new technologies and the financial challenges that often accompany those transitions. Thanks to the financial support and forward-looking leadership of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners, the FRMG came to fruition earlier this year. “Supporting our existing industries is a top priority in Catawba County,” said Randy Isenhower, Chair of the County Board of Commissioners. “This program underscores our commitment to providing the resources and tools manufacturing companies need to strengthen operations, support employees, and remain competitive in an evolving global market.” Danyel Harris, SEI Technologies, “This investment will allow SEI Technologies to launch our Lights-Out Manufacturing initiative bringing advanced, multi-axis machining without attended production. By completing complex parts in a single setup, we can achieve higher accuracy, shorter cycle times, and more consistent quality while reducing waste and manual handling. This project will accelerate our company's growth, support higher-skilled opportunities for our employees, and strengthen our manufacturing competitiveness.” The inaugural FRMG cycle drew substantial interest from manufacturers across the county, reflecting both the demand for this type of support and the readiness of local companies to pursue forward-thinking investments. Projects selected for funding include automation upgrades, robotics, advanced quality systems, and other technologies that enhance productivity, reduce downtime, support workforce upskilling and reinforce local supply chain capabilities. “This first group of awardees showcases the innovation already happening inside our community’s manufacturing facilities,” said Kimberly Propst, Economic Development Specialist with Catawba County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and program lead for the FRMG. “We are proud to partner with these companies and excited to see measurable impact these projects will generate in the year ahead.” The FRMG is administered by the Catawba County EDC in partnership with county leadership and is expected to serve as a model for other communities exploring ways to support advanced manufacturing transitions. For more information about the FRMG, please contact Catawba County EDC. ### Media Contact: Catawba County Economic Development Corporation Kimberly Propst 828-267-1564 kpropst@catawbacountync.gov

Thread the Word, an Australian company which specializes in manufacturing customized gift blankets, has opened a US-based manufacturing operation at the Manufacturing Solutions Center (MSC) incubator located in Conover, North Carolina.  The MSC is part of Catawba Valley Community College.  Thread the Word uses flat bed knitting equipment to manufacture customized baby and gift blankets in various colors and sizes and produces customized embroidered gifts.  Thread the Word’s expansion to the MSC positions the company at one of the nation’s premier hubs for advanced textile manufacturing, research, and development. By joining the MSC incubator, the company gains access to state-of-the-art resources, testing and product development support, textile industry expertise, and a network of domestic manufacturers and suppliers.  Peter Thomas and his wife Annie founded Thread the Word in Australia in 2021.  Thomas recognized the value of having a US operation to better meet the needs of his customers as Thread the Word’s sales grew.  “We’re thrilled to begin this phase of our journey at the Manufacturing Solutions Center,” said Thomas.  “The MSC provides an unmatched support system for scaling our production and expanding our product line.  We can now ship orders to our customers in the States within three days to better serve the US market.”  “We’re excited to welcome Thread the Word to the MSC,” said MSC Director Jeff Neuville.  “Our mission is to expand and support our domestic manufacturing base, so it’s very satisfying to help a manufacturer begin operations here in the US.”  Thread the Word began operations in the MSC incubator in September.  Learn more about Thread the Word at  www.threadtheword.com .   Part of Catawba Valley Community College, the Manufacturing Solutions Center provides testing, prototyping, and business incubation services to support the growth of manufacturing companies. With an emphasis on textiles and emerging technologies, MSC fosters innovation and economic development throughout the region.  To learn more about the MSC visit  www.manufacturingsolutionscenter.org . ### Jeff Neuville Director, Manufacturing Solutions Center Manufacturing Solutions Center 301 Conover Station SE, Conover, NC 28613  828.327.7000 x 4102 |  www.manufacturingsolutionscenter.org

and has designated a new innovation district for future growth. In today’s competitive economic landscape, location is more than geography—it’s strategy. The City of Hickory, North Carolina, is executing a bold, data-driven vision to position itself as a premier destination for business and industry. Through targeted investments in infrastructure, placemaking, and industrial readiness, Hickory is creating the conditions for sustainable growth, innovation, and long-term value creation. High-quality infrastructure lays the foundation for economic expansion, attracting businesses and fostering efficient movement of goods and people. Amenities like parks, cultural centers, and recreational facilities not only enhance the quality of life but also stimulate local commerce by drawing in visitors and potential residents. These enhancements create a vibrant, attractive community that encourages social interaction, fosters creativity, and provides a fertile environment for start-ups and entrepreneurs. Since the passing of a $40 million bond referendum in 2014, the City of Hickory has embarked on a journey of transformation. In recent years, the bond money has been leveraged to gain an additional $75 million in grants for complementary projects, amplifying its impact to over $115 million in transformative projects. These initiatives are not just beautification efforts, they are strategic economic drivers designed to attract talent, stimulate private investment, and support the needs of modern industry. The result of the City’s investment will be an 11-mile multimodal urban trail system connecting destinations across the city with additional connections planned for the future, placemaking through streetscapes and gateways, and a 378-acre Class A advanced business park to lure industry and create jobs. HICKORY TRAIL AND TRIVIUM CORPORATE CENTER At the heart of Hickory’s revitalization is the Hickory Trail, an over 11-mile multimodal urban trail system that connects key destinations across the city. This isn’t just a recreational amenity, it’s a strategic asset that enhances mobility, supports workforce attraction, and increases the value of adjacent real estate. The trail links Hickory’s downtown, lakefront, educational institutions, cultural venues, and airport, creating a seamless experience for residents, visitors, and businesses alike. With four of its five segments already open, City Walk, Riverwalk, Aviation Walk, and Historic Ridgeview Walk. The final piece, the OLLE Art Walk, is under construction. This 2.4-mile corridor will revitalize the Old Lenoir Road area, now home to a growing arts and retail district, and is expected to spark significant private investment through placemaking, public art, and cultural activation. This new section of trail is named after the OLLE Arts District, which derives its name from the first two letters of "Old" and "Lenoir" in the road name, Old Lenoir Road. An interactive map and additional information about the Hickory Trail are available online at  www.hkytrail.com . While the Hickory Trail enhances livability and talent attraction, Trivium Corporate Center delivers on industrial readiness and global competitiveness. Developed in partnership with Catawba County, Trivium is a 378-acre Class A business park with five international tenants, manufacturing products for global distribution and additional opportunities for businesses looking to locate and/or expand in Hickory. Named for the Latin word meaning “the place where three roads meet,” Trivium Corporate Center is ideally positioned in Hickory at the intersection of I-40, U.S. 70, and U.S. 321, less than an hour from Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Conveniently set less than one mile from shopping, hotels, and restaurants in the Hickory MSA's commercial center, the business park is also ideal for corporate headquarters and is less than one mile from Catawba Valley Community College. Since breaking ground in 2018, Trivium has attracted five international manufacturers, including two new Corning facilities, cable manufacturing operations for its Optical Communications business segment; Cataler North America Corporation, developing and suppling automotive catalysts and activated carbon products to customers around the world based on new environmental technologies that purify air and water; Gusmer Enterprises, Inc., manufacturing and selling a wide range of products geared towards the winemaking, brewing, edible oil, and pharmaceutical markets; and American Fuji Seal, a global pioneer in the manufacturing of shrink sleeve labels, self-adhesive labels (pressure sensitive labels), spouted pouches, and packaging machinery. These companies were drawn by Hickory’s skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, and proximity to major logistics corridors. The park’s success led to a 108-acre expansion in 2021, known as Trivium East, creating even more opportunities for industrial growth. On October 15, Catawba County Economic Development Corporation, the City of Hickory, Catawba County, and the Trivium Board of Directors announced two new major investments in the business park, Corning and American Fuji Seal. Corning plans to expand operations in Trivium and will add 132 jobs at an average salary to exceed $65,000 per year and invest between $170 million and $267.9 million. American Fuji Seal is purchasing a second lot in Trivium and plans to invest between $10 million and $35 million, committing to create at least 20 jobs. They will make investments in their existing facility in Trivium over the next three years. For more information about available parcels in Trivium Corporate Center, visit  www.hickorync.gov/trivium-corporate-center . The Hickory Trail and Trivium Corporate Center have created a return on investment, measurable impact, momentum for the future. The results speak for themselves. Since the launch of Hickory’s revitalization strategy $902 million in private investment has been catalyzed, 1,615 new jobs have been created, with an additional 6,920 construction-related jobs, and 1,396 new housing units have been developed within a half mile of the Hickory Trail and Trivium Corporate Center. This is not just growth, it’s strategic transformation. Hickory is proving that with the right vision, infrastructure, and partnerships, mid-sized cities can compete—and win—in the global economy. HICKORY INNOVATION DISTRICT In the northwest corner of Hickory, along the high-visibility U.S. 321 corridor, a new chapter in economic development is unfolding. The Hickory Innovation District, spanning over 2,000 acres and three-square miles, is emerging as a regional epicenter for education, innovation, and recreation. With more than seven miles of the Hickory Trail System running through it, this district is designed to be a magnet for talent, investment, and next-generation industry. The district is uniquely positioned to support workforce, anchored by regional assets, including Appalachian State University’s Hickory Campus, the Hickory Regional Airport, Catawba Valley Community College’s (CVCC’s) The Dale Earnhardt Regional Innovation Complex, and the Hickory Regional Water Treatment Facility. The area also includes regional recreation amenities including mountain bike trails, the region’s minor league baseball stadium, and access to beautiful Lake Hickory. Area leaders are joining forces to leverage this strategic location as a place for education, innovation, and recreation that will achieve Hickory’s vision for economic development by increasing access to education and workforce training, enhancing the quality of life through improved access to recreation and outdoor amenities, and stimulating new mixed-use development Two cornerstone projects are already redefining the district’s potential include Catawba Valley Community College’s The Dale Earnhardt Regional Innovation Complex and The Hickory Aviation Museum. The Dale Earnhardt Regional Innovation Complex, a new workforce training center at the Hickory Regional Airport, is backed by state funding and will feature high-tech labs, virtual simulators, and flexible learning spaces. It builds on the success of CVCC’s Workforce Solutions Complex and will serve as a regional hub for upskilling and reskilling the labor force. Built on the success of its existing Workforce Solutions Complex, resulting in a regional education campus with flexible space that includes high-tech equipment, classrooms, and virtual simulators for training the next generation of the region’s workforce. The Hickory Aviation Museum has been located at the Hickory Regional Airport since 2007. In 2026, it will expand its footprint by moving into a state-of-the-art facility adjacent to Catawba Valley Community College’s The Dale Earnhardt Regional Innovation Complex. This joint-use space will house the museum's extensive collection of vintage military aircraft, preserve aviation history, and provide STEM education, and support workforce development opportunities. The museum and educational center are located at the end of the runway at Hickory Regional Airport. Located at the highest elevation in Hickory, the site offers panoramic views of the Catawba Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a destination for both learning and leisure. The Hickory Innovation District is not a standalone initiative—it’s a collaborative ecosystem. City and county governments, higher education institutions, private businesses, and community stakeholders are working together to shape a district that blends placemaking with purpose. Future development will emphasize mixed-use spaces that integrate employment, retail, and residential uses, cross-sector programming that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, and outdoor and recreational amenities that enhance quality of life and talent retention. This is more than a development zone; it’s a strategic platform for regional competitiveness. A COMMUNITY READY FOR GROWTH Hickory Regional Airport (HKY) is a general aviation airport that has seen significant increases in private aviation activity over the past several years. The North Carolina of Aviation’s 2025 State of Aviation Report highlights data showing Hickory Regional Airport’s significant annual economic impact. According to report, HKY supports 335 jobs, generates $26.6 million in personal income, and generates $66.1 million in economic output. The airport sees over 41,000 operations annually and is home to nearly 100 based aircraft. Planned runway expansions and continued hangar development aim to increase traffic at the airport in the coming years. The City of Hickory’s Water Treatment Facility is a regional water supply facility, providing potable drinking water to three counties and managing three purchased water systems extending from northern Alexander County to the Town of Catawba and Sherrills Ford. The facility also supplies water to the municipalities of Brookford, Catawba, Claremont, Conover, Icard, Long View, Maiden, and Taylorsville. Additionally, Hickory’s water system has interconnections with Newton and Mooresville. Drawing water from the Catawba River, the facility is a conventional surface water treatment facility with a rated capacity of 32 million gallons of water per day. The Catawba River Basin originates from springs in the tallest mountains of the Appalachian Mountain chain and flows east past Hickory. This provides the City of Hickory with a quality water source, relatively free from contamination. Duke Energy operates two hydroelectric dams, Rhodhiss upstream and Oxford downstream from the plant. Hickory’s treatment facility operates well under capacity, which offers significant opportunities for growth. Hickory has a skilled workforce and is supported by several educational institutions, including Hickory City Schools (K–12), Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC), Lenoir-Rhyne University, and Appalachian State University, which recently opened a campus in Hickory. Hickory is also home to two major hospitals: Frye Regional Medical Center and Catawba Valley Health System, each hosting state of the art medical facilities, as well as providing cancer, heart, and stroke care, as well as maternity care for the region. TOURISM AS AN ECONOMIC ENGINE People travel to Hickory for many reasons, from business to sports to leisure travel and more. In 2023 alone, visitors to Catawba County spent over $348 million, underscoring the growing economic impact of tourism. From furniture shopping and culinary experiences to outdoor adventures and cultural attractions, Hickory offers a diverse portfolio of experiences that support both the visitor economy and local quality of life. Hickory has made strategic investments in sports infrastructure to attract regional and national tournaments. The City’s Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism Department, in partnership with the Hickory Metro Convention Center & Visitors Bureau, has positioned the city as a hub for events in soccer, basketball, tennis, softball, fishing, gymnastics, and more. The City of Hickory has installed three artificial turf fields at Henry Fork River Park, reducing maintenance costs and increasing year-round usability. Additionally, Hickory has provided greater local programming. To date, Hickory has hosted a wide range of events, from lacrosse and flag football to ultimate frisbee and semi-professional soccer. In 2024, Hickory completed an $18 million expansion of the Hickory Metro Convention Center, increasing its footprint to 165,600 square feet, all on one level. With 132,000 square feet of usable event space, the facility is now even more competitive for large conferences, trade shows, and sporting events. To support this growth, two new hotels, adding approximately 200 rooms, are under construction and expected to open by the end of 2025. Hickory currently offers over 1,500 hotel rooms, plus a growing inventory of short-term rentals. These efforts complement Hickory’s existing assets, including professional baseball, Hickory Motor Speedway, and a growing network of trails and greenways. The tourism and hospitality industry continues to grow in Hickory and Catawba County and it’s due to collectively working together for the greater good of the Hickory community. It’s all about partnership in the Hickory Metro. TRANSFORMATION IS NOT ACCIDENTAL Hickory’s transformation is not accidental; it’s the result of intentional investment, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision for the future. From the Innovation District to Trivium Corporate Center, from the Hickory Trail to the Convention Center, the city is building a resilient, diversified economy that supports business, talent, and quality of life. With a strong foundation of infrastructure, a skilled and dedicated workforce, exceptional livability, and long-term value for businesses, Hickory offers more than just a place to grow—it’s a community driven by innovation and vision. Hickory is crafting a trailblazing path forward. For more information and regional look at Hickory, visit  www.MyHKY.com .

American Fuji Seal (AFS) entered into an Economic Development Agreement today to create at least 20 jobs and make investments in their existing facility in Trivium and to create a new facility on Lot 7 with a minimum investment of $10M with potential investments of up to $30 Million or more over the next three years. AFS will purchase Lot 7 for $668,860 and has the option of receiving incentives on future investments to pay back all or a portion of that amount back based on their investments in these facilities. If they invest more than $30M under the terms of the agreement they will be able to apply 75% of future payments to the City of Hickory and Catawba County toward that $668,860 purchase price up to the total.  “In less than five years since welcoming American Fuji Seal to Catawba County, we are already celebrating their expansion at Trivium Corporate Center,” said Randy Isenhower, Chair of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners. “Their success demonstrates that Catawba County is not just a good place to do business, but also a good place to grow business.” Hickory Mayor Hank Guess stated, ““We are excited to support American Fuji Seal’s continued growth in Hickory through this significant new investment at Trivium Corporate Center. AFS’s decision to expand their operations and create new jobs reflects the strength of our local workforce and the value of doing business in Hickory. This agreement brings immediate economic benefits and lays the groundwork for long-term partnership and prosperity. We look forward to seeing AFS thrive as they deepen their roots in our community.” All of these agreements are contractually based with minimum performance provisions in the event of default as required by NC General Statutes. Others involved include Trivium Corporate Center Inc., and the Catawba County Economic Development Corporation. ### For further details, please contact:  Scott Millar, President Catawba County EDC (828) 267-1564 smillar@catawbacountync.gov

Corning Optical Communications LLC, a division of Corning Incorporated, has agreed to acquire Lot 11 in Trivium Corporate to expand its manufacturing operations, hire and maintain a minimum of 132 jobs at an average salary to exceed $65,000/year, and invest between $170,000,000 to $267,900,000 under the terms of an economic development agreement with the City of Hickory and Catawba County. Corning will receive Lot 11 at no cost to the company (32.92 acres at $95,000/acre, valued at $3,127,400) and will receive grants based on future real and personal tax receipts of 57.5% for five years, up to a maximum additional value of $2,687,782 from the County and $3,102,587 from the City of Hickory. “We’re grateful for the support of Catawba County and the City of Hickory as we bring new opportunities to the business park and the greater Hickory community,” said Lindsey Theis, Director, Strategic Planning & Analysis, Optical Fiber and Cable, Corning Optical Communications. “Our highly skilled workforce in Catawba County is critical to our success, as we continue to deliver innovative optical cable solutions for our customers." “The City of Hickory is proud to celebrate Corning’s continued investment in our community with this latest expansion at Trivium Corporate Center. Corning’s ongoing commitment not only strengthens our local economy but also reinforces Hickory’s position as a hub for advanced manufacturing and innovation. This expansion brings new opportunities for our residents and contributes to the long-term vitality of the entire region. We are grateful for Corning’s partnership and their confidence in Hickory’s future,” said Hickory Mayor Hank Guess. “Corning’s continued success has contributed significantly to its presence in Catawba County, and specifically to the growth of Trivium Corporate Center,” said Randy Isenhower, Chair of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners. “Corning is an outstanding example of how well our community’s collaborative economic growth strategies are helping to support the continued expansion of major industry in Catawba County.” As with all economic development agreements, the City and County have established contractually-based guidelines requiring minimum job and investment criteria with substantial penalties for performance in compliance with NC General Statutes. Others involved include Trivium Corporate Center Inc., Catawba County Economic Development Corporation, NC Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. ### For further details, please contact: Catawba County EDC Scott Millar, President (828) 267-1564 smillar@catawbacountync.gov NC Department of Commerce David Rhodes drhodes@commercenc.gov

HICKORY, N.C. - The City of Hickory's newest walkway opened Tuesday morning. City leaders held a ribbon cutting on the steel pedestrian bridge that's part of the Aviation Walk.  The walk is one of five trails being built across the city connecting more than 10 miles of neighborhoods Click here for the rest of the article and videos on WSOC-TV

CLAREMONT, N.C. – Millwork & Panel LLC, a residential siding manufacturer and indirect subsidiary of CertainTeed Holding Corporation, has announced a significant expansion at its Catawba County site. The facility has been located in Claremont for over 30 years manufacturing vinyl siding products and employs over 160 employees. The company is set to invest at least $27.8 million over the next five years, and will create a minimum of 48 new positions with an average salary of $58,708, exceeding the county’s average wage of $52,172. This investment underscores the company’s commitment to innovation, growth, and its employees in the region. "Our expansion in Catawba County is not just about growing our industry," said Joe Bondi, President of Millwork & Panel LLC. "Our commitment to growth goes hand in hand with our commitment to provide customers with quality sustainable building products and to being a strong community partner. We are not just expanding our facilities; we’re expanding opportunities, jobs, and a spirit of innovation that will continue to fuel progress for generations to come." Randy Isenhower, Chair of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners, said, "We are immensely grateful and excited about Millwork & Panel’s decision to expand in Catawba County. This choice reflects our region’s unwavering commitment to providing a positive climate for investment." Mayor Shawn R. Brown of the City of Claremont added, "As the Mayor of Claremont, I want to express our gratitude to Millwork & Panel for their expansion and dedication to our city. Here, our strong workforce, supportive community, and exceptional quality of life converge to create an environment where businesses can not only grow but also truly thrive." Frank Young, Chair of the Catawba County EDC Board of Directors, commented, " Millwork & Panel’s expansion is a testament to the potential that our skilled workforce and supportive business environment offer. We believe that the expansion will serve as a catalyst for further economic growth, bringing new opportunities and benefits to our community while showcasing our county as a prime destination for businesses seeking a thriving future." A public hearing for local incentive consideration will likely be slated for January by the Catawba County Board of Commissioners and the Claremont City Council.  In addition to Catawba County, other key partners in the project include the City of Claremont, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, NC Commerce, North Carolina Community College System, Rubin Advisors Inc., and Catawba County Economic Development Corporation. ### Media Contacts: Catawba County Economic Development Corporation Nathan Huret828-267-1564 nhuret@catawbacountync.gov

HICKORY, N.C. – Steel Warehouse, a leading steel service center with distribution, shipping, and processing capabilities, announced that it will open a state-of-the-art facility in Hickory, North Carolina.  The ambitious initiative is set to create 58 jobs and involve an investment of $27 million over the next four years, significantly enhancing the company's presence and operational capabilities in the Southeastern United States. Steel Warehouse Company, a family-owned steel solutions provider and service center, boasts a rich 75-year heritage in the steel industry. Possessing deep metallurgical and engineering expertise, the company is headquartered in Indiana and operates 15 locations across the United States, Mexico, and Brazil. Distributing over two million tons of coil, sheet, and plate annually in hot- and cold-rolled materials, Steel Warehouse caters to a diverse range of industries including aerospace, agriculture, automotive, construction, energy, and transportation. The company is renowned for its experience in managing inventory and providing just-in-time shipments, ensuring timely and efficient delivery to meet customer needs. The latest expansion in Hickory is set to be an innovative operation, featuring enhanced processing capabilities designed to bolster the region's industrial supply chain. “We are excited to put down roots in North Carolina, providing cutting-edge capabilities to support our customers in the region,” said Dave Lerman, Chairman of the Board for Steel Warehouse. “We view Hickory and the State as an attractive place to invest for the long term.” Randy Isenhower, Chair of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners, said, "The decision by Steel Warehouse to locate and grow in Catawba County reflects our commitment to creating a positive business climate and is a testament to our prime location for industrial growth and innovation." Mayor Hank Guess of the City of Hickory added, "We are wholeheartedly committed to supporting Steel Warehouse’s expansion. This initiative reflects our city's strategic importance as a key industrial hub and highlights our commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts significant investment and job creation like this for our growing community.” Frank Young, Chair of the Catawba County EDC Board of Directors, also highlighted the economic impact: “This project is another step forward in our County's economic development. It underscores our ability to attract industry leaders like Steel Warehouse and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to creating a thriving business ecosystem.” A public hearing for local incentive consideration will likely be slated for March by the Catawba County Board of Commissioners and the Hickory City Council.  In addition to Catawba County and the City of Hickory, other key partners in the project include the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, NC Commerce, NC Department of Transportation, NC Community College System, Norfolk Southern, North Carolina Railroad, Duke Energy, and Catawba County Economic Development Corporation. Media Contacts: Catawba County Economic Development Corporation Nathan Huret 828-267-1564 nhuret@catawbacountync.gov

CONOVER, N.C. – Pleneri, a leading innovator in the apparel manufacturing industry, is excited to announce the opening of its Innovation Center at the Manufacturing Solutions Center (MSC) in Conover, North Carolina. This significant milestone places Pleneri at the heart of the emerging US textiles industry and underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability and technological advancement. Pleneri’s CEO, Matt Padberg, expressed his enthusiasm for the move, stating, “We are thrilled to establish our Innovation Center at the Manufacturing Solutions Center in Conover. This move not only aligns with our strategic goals but also places us in a prime geographic location within the US textiles industry. The resources and support available at MSC will undoubtedly accelerate our innovation and growth.” Jeff Neuville, Director of the Manufacturing Solutions Center, highlighted the synergy between Pleneri and MSC, saying, “We are delighted to welcome Pleneri to the Manufacturing Solutions Center. Our mission is to support early-stage companies by providing access to state-of-the-art equipment, industry expertise, and a collaborative environment. Pleneri’s presence here will significantly contribute to the advancement of the textiles industry in North Carolina, showcasing the value of reshoring manufacturing back to the United States.” Nathan Huret, Economic Development Director of the Catawba County Economic Development Corporation, emphasized the importance of Pleneri’s move, noting, “Pleneri represents the new face of 21st-century apparel manufacturing, utilizing technology and a strong focus on sustainability. The team from Pleneri quickly saw that this unique ecosystem is the best place for them, joining a growing list of companies that recognize the Catawba County region as the premier location in the United States for textile product development. Their decision to locate their Innovation Center at MSC underscores the region’s position as a hub for textile innovation and high-value manufacturing.” Pleneri is dedicated to revolutionizing the textiles industry through advanced technology and sustainable practices. The company’s new facilities at MSC will enable enhanced research and development capabilities, fostering the creation of innovative manufacturing solutions. Looking ahead, Pleneri plans to establish a series of micro-factories in the coming years to meet the needs of everyone from individual designers to global apparel brands. This focus on sustainability is reflected in its manufacturing processes, which aim to reduce environmental impact and promote eco-friendly practices. The opening of the Innovation Center at MSC marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey toward achieving its vision. For more information about Pleneri and its operations, please visit www.pleneri.com or contact Pilar McDermott ( pmcdermott@pleneri.com ). About the Manufacturing Solutions Center (MSC) at Catawba Valley Community College The Manufacturing Solutions Center, a unique economic development asset created by Catawba Valley Community College with local support from the City of Conover and Catawba County governments, provides manufacturers, especially early-stage companies, with the resources and expertise needed to innovate and thrive. MSC offers services such as product testing, prototyping, and business development support to help companies stay competitive in today’s market. About Catawba County Economic Development Corporation The Catawba County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is committed to fostering economic growth and development in Catawba County, North Carolina. The EDC works to attract and retain businesses, support local entrepreneurs, and create a vibrant economic environment that benefits all residents.  ### Media Contact: Catawba County Economic Development Corporation Nathan Huret 828-267-1564 nhuret@catawbacountync.gov