Eco King Solutions Brings 515 Jobs and $80.5 Million Investment to Graham County

Graham County -- July 23, 2025: Graham County, one of North Carolina's least-populated regions, is celebrating an economic triumph with the announcement of a new manufacturing facility.

 Governor Josh Stein revealed that Eco King Solutions, LLC, a subsidiary of Chinese manufacturer Zhejiang Kingsun Eco-pack Co., Ltd., will establish its first North American production plant in Robbinsville.

This groundbreaking project signifies an $80.5 million investment and promises to create 515 new jobs for the community.

The decision by Eco King Solutions to choose Robbinsville as its North American base is a testament to the collaborative efforts of local, regional, and state economic development leaders. The company specializes in the production of disposable, biodegradable paper tableware, including bowls, plates, clamshell containers, and trays, catering to supermarkets and the broader food service industry.

The new factory will revitalize the former Stanley Furniture building, a site that once served as a significant employer for decades before its closure in 2014, leading to the loss of 400 jobs. The arrival of Eco King Solutions breathes new life into this long-dormant facility, offering a beacon of hope and opportunity for Graham County and its surrounding areas.

"North Carolina offers global companies a perfect location for expansion into North America," stated Governor Josh Stein. "We welcome Eco King to western North Carolina, where it will find a welcoming business climate, education and workforce programs tailored to its needs, and the full range of competitive advantages that make North Carolina the top state to do business in the country."

The economic impact of this project is substantial. The 515 new jobs will offer an average annual salary of $46,707, aligning with the current average wage in Graham County and contributing over $14 million annually to the local payroll. Eco King Solutions plans to hire 300 individuals within the next three years, with the remaining 215 positions added in a subsequent phase.

Ping Zhang, Chairman of Eco King Solutions, expressed the company's enthusiasm for its new home. "We have been impressed by how welcoming Robbinsville, Graham County and North Carolina have been to our company and this important project," said Zhang. "We worked very hard to find the right location for our business to thrive. We know we found it right here due to the excellent workforce, quality of life and friendly business climate. We are excited to be a part of the community, and we are excited for our company to prosper here."

The company's decision to localize production in Robbinsville is a strategic move to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce international shipping costs and lead times, thereby better serving its growing North American customer base.

The project is bolstered by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) from the state, potentially reimbursing the company up to $2.894 million over 12 years. Additional state support includes $1 million for workforce training and a $500,000 grant through the state's building reuse program. Graham County and Robbinsville have also committed local incentives totaling at least $2.9 million, underscoring the strong local commitment to this venture.

This significant investment is projected to boost North Carolina's economy by more than $743.4 million over the 12-year grant period. For Graham County, it represents a crucial step in combating the "brain drain" that has seen residents leave in search of employment, now offering a compelling reason for people to return and build a future within the community. The Eco King Solutions factory marks the largest manufacturing project announced in Graham County and the wider seven-county region in the last 15 years, heralding a new era of growth and prosperity for western North Carolina.

WNCTimes

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