W.R. Grace opens manufacturing plant in Tennessee

W.R. Grace & Company is celebrating the official opening of its new manufacturing facility in Mt. Pleasant, Tenn., on May 1. The company is marking the achievement with an open house, community tours and remarks from elected officials and members of Grace’s leadership team, including president and CEO Fred Festa. The facility operates as part of Grace Construction Products and manufactures commercial and residential building materials, such as roofing, flashing and structural waterproofing products.

“This state-of-the-art facility represents a significant long-term investment in Mt. Pleasant and an important part of Grace’s expansion plans,” remarked Festa. “We are excited about the opportunities the facility offers to our company, our new colleagues in Tennessee and the local community.”

The Mt. Pleasant site consists of a 100,000 square feet building located on 25 acres of property. Major manufacturing equipment has been installed and tested to support Grace’s growth and focus on innovation.

The additional capacity created by the facility enables Grace to bring products to market faster and service customers in the South and nationwide better with reduced logistics costs and improved productivity. The grand opening caps a two-year process involving site selection, renovation and construction.

“The community has been tremendously supportive of Grace, assisting with utilities, permits and employment services,” said plant manager Mark Morgan. “We appreciate the support received and are committed to generating growth opportunities for the citizens of Mt. Pleasant and the surrounding communities.”

Grace is a leader in the construction products industry, manufacturing a full range of waterproofing products for residential and commercial construction, including Grace Ice & Water Shield and Tri-Flex 30 roofing underlayments, Vycor window, door and deck flashings, and Bituthene below-grade structural waterproofing systems. These products provide protection against water and moisture infiltration that can cause structural damage, rot and mold, and ultimately make buildings and homes stronger and more comfortable.