PPG invests $380M to build aerospace coatings and sealants manufacturing facility in North Carolina 

PPG invests $380M to build aerospace coatings and sealants manufacturing facility in North Carolina 

May 21, 2025
The new 198,000-square-foot facility will enhance production capacity and improve logistics for PPG’s aerospace customers. 

PPG has announced plans to build a new aerospace coatings and sealants manufacturing facility in Shelby, North Carolina. The company, which produces paints, coatings, and specialty materials, is investing $380 million into the project and expects to create more than 110 new jobs. 

The facility will be located on a 62-acre site and span 198,000 square feet, with construction scheduled to begin in October 2025 and completion anticipated in the first half of 2027. It will manufacture the full range of the company’s aerospace coatings and sealants. Designed to support growing industry demand, the site will include both manufacturing and warehousing units. Proximity to key transport routes is expected to improve supply chain efficiency and customer service. PPG will also integrate advanced manufacturing technologies to reduce environmental impact while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. 

What people are saying 

In a recent quote, Tim Knavish, chairman and chief executive officer, PPG, said, “PPG’s investment in this new manufacturing facility demonstrates the significant demand growth for our world-class technologies and our continued commitment to serving our aerospace customers. By modernizing and digitizing our facilities, PPG will continue to embody our purpose - to protect and beautify the world - while contributing to the growth and innovation of the aerospace sector.” 

Sam Millikin, vice president, global aerospace, PPG, added, “This investment not only underscores our commitment to the aerospace industry and providing high-quality products, but also positions us to respond more effectively to growing market needs. The Shelby, N.C. location will play a crucial role in enhancing our operational efficiency and supporting our customers. We appreciate our continued partnership with Governor Stein, local, state and federal representatives and the Shelby community as we increase our production capabilities in this region.” 

Josh Stein, governor of North Carolina, added, “PPG knows what I know: North Carolina is the #1 state for manufacturing in the Southeast. Our state’s workforce is our greatest asset, and I will continue to advocate for more training and education programs so that employees can build a career and employers have the well-trained people they need to get to work.” 

Manufacturers investing in North Carolina 

Opsun invests $9.3M to build solar panel mounting structure manufacturing facility in North Carolina 
The new facility will triple Opsun’s current operational footprint and expand its U.S. presence. 

Wow Bao invests $6.45M to open Asian street food manufacturing facility in North Carolina 
The new facility will increase production capacity and expand Wow Bao’s reach across the country. 

Yeadon Fabric Domes invests $4.6M to build air-supported structure manufacturing facility in North Carolina 
The company plans to create 72 new jobs in Cumberland County with the construction of its new manufacturing plant. 

Investing in American manufacturing in 2025 

This map shows where manufacturers are choosing to invest their resources, whether they are building new production facilities or expanding existing plants. 

About the Author

Alexis Gajewski | Senior Content Strategist

Alexis Gajewski has over 15 years of experience in the maintenance, reliability, operations, and manufacturing space. She joined Plant Services in 2008 and works to bring readers the news, insight, and information they need to make the right decisions for their plants. Alexis also authors “The Lighter Side of Manufacturing,” a blog that highlights the fun and innovative advances in the industrial sector.