Tractor manufacturer Kubota is expanding its operations in north Georgia. The company has signed a deal to build a new plant in the Gateway Industrial Centre off Highway 365 in northern Hall County, right next door to Habersham. The new plant is expected to bring 650 new jobs to the region over the next several years.
Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal (R) made the announcement today during a campaign stop in Cornelia. Deal is running for re-election against State Senator Jason Carter. Both candidates are focusing on jobs and the economy in the final days leading up to next Tuesday’s election.
According to a news release issued by Gov. Deal’s office, the plant will be built on 180 acres and Kubota will invest $100 million in the project. The company already has plants in Gainesville and Jefferson. Those plants are expected to remain open.
Director of the international investment team at the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Scott McMurray assisted KMA on behalf of Georgia, along with the Gainesville-Hall County Chamber of Commerce.
“This is a significant project for Gainesville-Hall County,” said Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce CEO Kit Dunlap. “Our commitment to supporting existing industries such as Kubota and their suppliers will produce jobs and support small businesses throughout the region.”
“Georgia’s longstanding business relationship with Japan is enhanced when companies such as Kubota choose to expand here,” said GDEcD Commissioner Chris Carr. “Not only has Kubota become a flagship for other Japanese companies to locate to Georgia, but they continue to invest in our thriving manufacturing sector, utilizing our solid logistics infrastructure and creating quality jobs for our well-trained workforce.”
Kubota Manufacturing of America (KMA) employs nearly 2,200 people in Georgia. The company has operated in the state for 26 years.
