HWI to expand in Fulton, investing $13.9 million and creating 11 new jobs

HWI (HarbisonWalker International), one of the leading suppliers of refractory products and services in the United States and member of the Calderys Group, announced today that it will expand in Fulton, investing $13.9 million and creating 11 new jobs.

"We're excited to see an innovative and world-class company like HWI continuing to invest in Fulton," said Governor Mike Parson. "From day one, our administration remained committed to improving infrastructure and strengthening our workforce to ensure a thriving economy. As a result, more and more quality employers like HWI are growing and improving the lives of Missourians and their families."

HWI's expansion includes the construction of an additional, state-of-the-art, lightweight monolithics refractories manufacturing facility that will increase production capacity by approximately 60 percent while enhancing product availability. The facility will feature cutting-edge technology and process automation advancements, including a new furnace and automated robotic packaging and material handling systems. HWI currently employs more than 70 people at its existing Fulton location.

"We're proud of our company's more than 100-year legacy in the Callaway County community, and we are thrilled to further expand operations here," said Ross Wilkin, Senior Vice President of Americas for Calderys Group. "Our growth in Fulton is a testament to our confidence in our people and the community."

HWI's new plant will provide access to local, high-quality clay reserves, allowing the company to increase the production of its Greenlite aggregate-containing products, including the GREENLITE®-45-L family of monolithics and GREENLITE® 115 AR brick. These products are used extensively in many applications, including petrochemical, power generation, and other heater linings. Their unique strength-to-density ratios optimize thermal insulation with minimal structural bulk to reduce energy consumption and support customers' goals. The company's new facility is expected to be completed in July 2025.

"HWI's expansion in Fulton is another exciting example of the rapid growth of our state's manufacturing industry," said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. "We're pleased to support HWI as it continues to build on its long history of helping Missourians prosper in Callaway County."

New jobs added as part of HWI's expansion will pay an average wage well above the county average.

For this expansion, HWI will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation.

What others are saying

"This investment demonstrates our commitment to meeting our customers' evolving needs and reinforcing our market leadership position," said Michel Cornelissen, President and CEO of Calderys.

"This project represents a significant step forward for our community," said Kim Barnes, President of the Fulton Area Development Foundation. "It underscores the importance of collaboration and strategic planning in attracting high-quality investments that will benefit the residents of Callaway County for years to come."

"We are thrilled to see HWI's additional growth in Callaway County," said Callaway County Commissioner Gary Jungermann. "This expansion is a testament to the ongoing efforts of our community to attract and retain quality businesses. We look forward to seeing an even greater positive impact from HWI on the local workforce and economy."

"The collaboration between our local entities and state agencies was critical to making this happen," said Tom Howard, IDA Board Member. "HWI's decision to relocate here highlights the strength of our business environment, and we are excited to see this partnership grow."

About HWI, a member of Calderys

HWI is one of the leading suppliers of refractory products and services in the United States, with a history that spans more than 150 years. It is part of Calderys and is the brand for the Americas region of the Group. HWI counts 25 manufacturing sites and 20 distribution centers in the Americas, as well as the largest refractory industry research facility in North America. Serving virtually every major industry that requires refractory solutions to enhance production and protect assets, HWI is consistently recognized for its talented experts, industry firsts, and intensely driven excellence.

To learn more about HWI, visit thinkhwi.com.

About Calderys

Calderys is a leading global provider for industries operating in high-temperature conditions with 2023 revenue at circa €1.6bn and over €220m of adjusted EBITDA. The Group specializes in thermal protection for industrial equipment with a wide range of refractory products and advanced solutions to enhance steel casting, metallurgical fluxes, and molding processes. With a presence in more than 30 countries and a strong footprint in the Americas through the brand HWI (HarbisonWalker International), Calderys' international network of experts ensures an end-to-end offer with tailored services. Drawing on over 150 years of experience, Calderys supports its customers in their energy transition needs. Headquartered in Paris, France, the Group counts 5,800 employees and contractors, and 50 plants on five continents.

To learn more about Calderys, visit calderys.com.

About the Missouri Department of Economic Development

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri's businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.

For the latest updates on DED's current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED's website.

About the Missouri Works Program

As the state's number one incentive tool for expansion and retention, the Missouri Works Program helps businesses access capital through withholdings or tax credits to embark on facility expansions and create jobs. This program can also help businesses purchase equipment to maintain its facility in Missouri.

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