Today Governor Josh Stein announced that Boater’s World Manufacturing Group, LLC will create 179 new jobs in Beaufort County. The company says it will invest more than $6 million to establish a boat manufacturing campus in Chocowinity.
“From building materials to building boats, North Carolina’s manufacturing expertise is second to none,” said Governor Josh Stein. “When companies choose rural North Carolina, it reminds the world that North Carolina is a top-tier state for business. Thanks to our workforce, our infrastructure, and our commitment to supporting long-term economic opportunity from the mountains to the coast, we have what companies need to thrive.”
Boater’s World Manufacturing Group marks Outdoor Network’s entry into boat manufacturing with the acquisition of NauticStar Boats. Since 1999, Outdoor Network has been a leading force in the recreational marine and powersports industry. This new venture represents a natural extension of Outdoor Network’s growth by reinforcing its long-standing commitment to serving customers and partners throughout the marine community. The new facility, spanning 212,000 square feet on the waterfront of the Pamlico River, will serve as the company’s flagship manufacturing operation.
“Our growth over the last 27 years has always been driven by a simple focus on doing right by our customers, and building boats of our own has always been one of our goals to better serve the marine community,” said Martin Polo, CEO of Outdoor Network. “Taking the helm as a manufacturer of the NauticStar marine line allows us to combine decades of marine retail experience with genuine craft building. We are grateful for North Carolina’s partnership and excited to make Beaufort County our manufacturing home.”
“This announcement reflects the confidence employers have in our state’s strong business climate,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “With a skilled and talented boatbuilding workforce, efficient waterfront access, and robust regional marine supply chain, the Town of Chocowinity has the right components to support and grow our $17 billion outdoor recreation economy.
Although the wages will vary by position, the annual average salary for the assembly, engineering, and operations roles will be $54,916, which exceeds the Beaufort County average of $50,175. These new jobs could potentially create an annual payroll impact of more than $1.2 million for the region.
A performance-based grant of $375,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help the company locate to North Carolina. The OneNC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. Boater’s World Manufacturing Group must invest $1.3 million to receive One NC grant payments. All OneNC grants require matching participation from local governments, and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.
“This is a tremendous win for Beaufort County and for rural eastern North Carolina,” said Senator Bob Brinson. “This project demonstrates what can be accomplished when the General Assembly, the Governor’s Office, the Department of Commerce, and local leaders work together to support existing industries, encourage private investment, and strengthen our rural communities, and I look forward to seeing the lasting economic impact Boater’s World Manufacturing Group will have on the region.”
“We welcome Boater’s World Manufacturing Group and all they will build in Chocowinity,” said Representative Keith Kidwell. “Supporting business growth and creating meaningful opportunities are important to the people of Beaufort County, and we’re grateful that this company sees the value of our community’s resources and readiness.”
In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solutions, the North Carolina Community College System, Beaufort County Community College, Beaufort County, and the Town of Chocowinity.