Life Stone Materials Announces Operations in Anderson County in the old Straits Steel and Wire building off Standridge Road in the heart of SC Senate District 3!
                     
Investment expected to bring 45 new jobs to the area
                 
The South Carolina Department of Commerce and the Anderson County Office of Economic Development today announced that Life Stone Materials LLC will locate a manufacturing facility in Anderson County.  The company expects to invest $5.5 million and create 45 new jobs in the area.
                  
“We are optimistic that the knowledge brought to this venture will enable Life Stone Materials to become a global player in protective materials,” said Craig Trask, Production Manager of Life Stone Materials.  “South Carolina provides our company with the skilled workforce and capabilities necessary to meet our manufacturing goals and provide our customers with the quality products they demand.  We look forward to a strong and lasting relationship with the Palmetto State.”
           
Life Stone Materials will weave fabrics used in high-performance, protective technologies, including state-of-the-art ballistic solutions for the U.S. military, federal agencies, state, and local law enforcement.  The facility is expected to be fully operational sometime in the second quarter of 2008.
                         
“Life Stone Materials provides high-quality, advanced fabrics for a range of applications including life-saving technologies.  We are pleased that Life Stone Materials has chosen to locate its operations in Anderson County.  This investment is a testament that the state’s skilled workforce and business-friendly climate are working to attract advanced manufacturing jobs throughout South Carolina.  Thanks to the team effort of local and state officials, Anderson County will benefit from this investment now and in the years to come,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.
               
“We are pleased to welcome Life Stone Materials to Anderson County and look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship. Our area’s leadership is dedicated to fostering the conditions for economic growth and improving the quality of life in Anderson County,” said Heather Simmons-Jones, executive director of the Anderson County Office of Economic Development.
                  
Life Stone Materials LLC is a joint venture by Point Blank Solutions Inc. and FMS Enterprises Migun Ltd.  The company will produce fabrics for both investing entities while utilizing collaborative research and development efforts.  Point Blank Solutions, Inc. is a leader in the design and production of technologically advanced body armor systems for the U.S. Military, Government, and law enforcement agencies, as well as select international markets. FMS has been a leading manufacturer and supplier of technologically advanced lightweight ballistic armor materials since its establishment in 1986.  FMS sets industry standards, using technological innovation and strict quality control criteria.  For more information on Point Blank Solutions For more information on FMS