Yarn maker to open plant in Rowan County

Tuscarora Yarns Inc., which has operated yarn manufacturing mills in North Carolina since 1899, will invest $6.3 million during the next three years in China Grove. The company employs 57 in China Grove and plans to move its operation to a larger, more modern facility.

Salaries for the new jobs will average $27,334 a year, plus benefits. The Rowan County average annual wage is $36,036.

A worldwide leader in the manufacturing of heather and mélange yarns, Tuscarora produces a variety of yarns for applications such as sportswear, underwear, hosiery, sweaters, home furnishings and automotive components.

Tuscarora qualified for a $146,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund, which provides financial assistance to attract economic development projects to the state. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job and investment targets to obtain the funds.