North Wake News

Governor Josh Stein has announced that Barrier Fencing Supply Company will create 151 jobs in North Carolina. The company plans to invest $15 million to establish its headquarters and a manufacturing center in Columbus County.

“North Carolina’s southeast region and Columbus County are a terrific place to do business,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Barrier Fencing’s project brings good jobs and welcome investment there and the company’s decision shows once again that CEOs recognize North Carolina’s advantages as a business location.”

Barrier Fencing Supply Company, originally a fencing installation business, now operates as a wholesaler and distributor across the United States. The new project will establish both headquarters operations and a manufacturing plant for its fencing products, allowing the company to relocate much of its manufacturing activity back to the U.S.

“Our aim is to generate employment, assist those in need, and to make a meaningful difference in the community,” said Tony Bowling, CEO of Barrier Fencing Supply Company. “Our goals and progress will be achieved thanks to the State of North Carolina and Columbus County. We are thankful and look forward to this partnership.”

Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley noted, “North Carolina is the number one state for manufacturing in the Southeast, so it’s only natural that Barrier Fencing would choose to expand here. From our outstanding transportation networks and quality infrastructure to our skilled and available workforce, North Carolina offers everything a manufacturer needs to succeed.”

The average salary for these new positions will be $44,114, slightly above Columbus County's current average wage of $44,081.

To support Barrier Fencing's move into Columbus County, a performance-based grant of $275,000 from the One North Carolina Fund has been allocated. This fund assists local governments in attracting economic investment by providing financial aid contingent on job creation and capital investment targets being met.

N.C. House Majority Leader Brenden Jones commented on the development: “Making products in the United States strengthens our economy, so it’s great to see Barrier Fencing choose Columbus County for their new manufacturing plant. We welcome these new jobs and further private-sector investment to our region.”

N.C. Senator Bill Rabon added his appreciation for collaborative efforts: “Many state, regional, and local partners worked hard behind the scenes to support the Barrier Fencing team during its site selection process,” he said. “I appreciate this collaborative teamwork very much, and our community looks forward to supporting the company as they establish operations in Columbus County.”

Key partners involved include the North Carolina Department of Commerce; Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina; North Carolina General Assembly; North Carolina Community College System; Commerce Department’s Division of Workforce Solutions; North Carolina’s Southeast; Columbus County; and Columbus County Economic Development Commission.