Press release

from Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development

Blue Ridge Metals Corporation, a fully owned subsidiary of Central Yoshida Corporation, headquartered in Nagoya, Japan, is pleased to announce the expansion of the company’s North American manufacturing facility located in Fletcher, NC. The expansion creates a positive employment impact through the addition of at least 20 new jobs to the existing base of 125 persons. The company will invest at least $20 million in new real property, equipment and machinery, including the addition of 15,000 square feet of space to the existing 175,000 square foot facility.

Blue Ridge Metals is a leading supplier of wire processing and cold-formed products, most commonly utilized in the automotive industry. The company’s expansion will allow for the installation of the largest cold former in North America. This investment will allow the company to expand production capabilities to serve customers that include Toyota, Honda, Ford and General Motors and many of their suppliers. According to Factory Manager, Steve Sheppard, “this growth comes as a result of a global assessment of the company’s footprint. Henderson County’s business climate, capable workforce and strategic location played a critical role in the company’s decision to grow the U.S. operation.”

Tommy Thompson, Chairman of the Henderson County Board of Commissioners, said, “As a global operation, Blue Ridge Metals could have expanded in many locations. Their selection of Henderson County serves as a testament to our strategic vision to support existing industries.” Mayor Bill Moore of the Town of Fletcher stated, “Blue Ridge Metals has served as a model corporate citizen since their decision to first locate here in 1988. Beyond the obvious benefits of new job creation and investment, the company has played a significant role in the development of the Town’s park and greenway system. We are proud of the bond between the Town of Fletcher and Blue Ridge Metals and look forward to future opportunities for collaboration.”

Blue Ridge Metals formally announced their expansion at the Industrial Appreciation Event hosted by the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development on September 25, 2012. Board Chairman Chip Gould noted that the company is not only a leader in the global automotive sector, but has also fostered an organizational culture focused on community engagement. “Many of the concepts that formed our formal existing industry program came from the leadership at Blue Ridge Metals many years ago. We thank Blue Ridge Metals for choosing to expand and invest in our community,” stated Gould.

The Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development, Inc. is a 501(c)6 organization that works to: retain and attract quality jobs; solicit new business compatible with the assets and values of Henderson County; promote Henderson County’s business image; assist expansion of existing companies; and enhance Henderson County’s overall quality of life. For more information on the Partnership visit http://www.strategiclocation.com. For more information about Blue Ridge Metals, visit http://www.brmcorp.com.