Foss Manufacturing to Build Medical Fabric Facility in Georgia

Hampton, N.H.-based Foss Manufacturing Company will open a manufacturing and distribution facility in Rome, Ga. The company is investing $15 million in the facility and creating 150 jobs over the next three years. Foss is a needle-punch based manufacturer, and this new facility will manufacture and distribute medical masks, hospital apparel and linens, as well as products for the automotive sector.

Last year, Foss’ Fosshield surgical mask won the New Hampshire High Technology Council’s 2011 Product of the Year award.

“Northwest Georgia remains a strategic home for the textile manufacturing industry, complete with the business environment and skilled workforce to help this industry continue its recovery in our state,” said Georgia Governor Nathan Deal. “I am encouraged by the commitment Foss Manufacturing is making in Floyd County, and look forward to the contributions this company will make to one of Georgia’s major industries. I am glad to welcome Foss to Georgia.”

Deal has actively encouraged medical device and other manufacturers to bring their business to Georgia. Medical device manufacturer Baxter International is one of the most recent companies to break ground on a new location in the state, choosing to build its new manufacturing facility in Stanton Springs. “Baxter’s decision to build a facility here is a watershed event for the state, not only in our goal to establish Georgia as a hub for global health, but in our mission to provide high-quality jobs for our citizens,” Deal said at the time.

“We are very excited about our decision to expand our operations and locate in Rome, and look forward to great success,” Foss CEO A.J. Nassar said. “Over the next 12 months, we will be introducing new products and technologies enabling us to expand manufacturing and add employees throughout the company.”

“It is always great news for our community when we secure a new company with such a diverse customer base,” said Rome Mayor Evie McNiece. “We are happy that at least 150 people will directly benefit from this positive use of a former manufacturing building.”

The Georgia Department of Economic Development  (GDEcD) partnered with the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce, Rome-Floyd County Development Authority, the Development Authority of Floyd County and the City of Rome to bring Foss Manufacturing to Georgia.

“Textile manufacturing stands as one of Georgia’s oldest industries, and has been a key driver of our economy for several generations,” said GDEcD Commissioner Chris Cummiskey. “Foss Manufacturing’s decision to locate in Georgia is real proof of the resilience of this manufacturing sector. This investment will positively impact Rome and communities throughout northwest Georgia.”

Foss Manufacturing manufactures specialty fibers, non-woven and needle-punch fabrics for a variety of industries, including medical.

Photo: Mark Gauthier, marketing specialist for Foss Manufacturing in Hampton, dons the Fosshield surgical mask. Photo courtesy of Rich Beauchesne.