Ceramic-coating manufacturer VITREUS USA has started operations in Newberry and is testing and ramping up production, according to a November 5 announcement from the South Carolina Department of Commerce. The project represents an $800,000 investment with 15 jobs expected.
The facility at 200 Park Avenue is the company’s first North American operation. VITREUS USA is a subsidiary of Germany’s VITREUS GmbH, which supplies coatings and related materials used by the heavy ceramics industry.
At the Newberry site, the business develops, manufactures and supplies surface-finishing products for makers of bricks and roof tiles. Its products provide color and decorative finishes for facing bricks and clay roof tiles. The parent company also produces materials including glazes and pigments.
The announcement distinguishes the facility’s initial operating phase from full production: testing and ramp-up were underway when it was issued. Commerce directed people interested in employment to contact the company. The state release identifies the job figure as the expected result of the investment.