by Tracy Ayers
*Reporter/Photographer*
When Saargummi began operations in its sealing systems manufacturing
facility in Pulaski a decade ago it had one major automotive company
customer. With consistency of producing good products for Mercedes,
Saargummi of Tennessee has added BMW, Volkswagen and Freightliner to
their supplier list. The increase in demand has the company spreading
its wings and expanding its building to take on greater challenges,
that will incorporate new technology and employ 400 or more workers by
early 2012.
In April, the plant began production for the Volkswagen Jetta project
in Puebla, Mexico, will begin production for the new BMW W3 project
for the Spartanburg, S.C., next month, followed shortly by work for
the new Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga.
"Saargummi of Tennessee is very proud of the growth we are
experiencing in Pulaski and Giles County," General Manager Greg
Galloway said recently to a group representing various entities which
have contributed to the company's success. "This expansion means
additional jobs and revenue for our community."
Galloway explained the local plant has already added 100 new jobs so
far this year.
Individuals seeking employment opportunities with Saargummi of
Tennessee should go to the Tennessee Career Center at 125 S. Cedar
Lane and complete Work Keys Testing before applying at Staffmark,
located at 1197 W. College St., Pulaski.
"The growth of our company has been strongly supported by local and
state officials as well as local banks," Galloway said. "I want to
take the opportunity to thank Dan Speer and the members of the
Pulaski/Giles County Economic Development Commission, the Industrial
Development Board of Pulaski and Giles County, the state of Tennessee
Department of Economic and Community Development, the state of
Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Also, we at
Saargummi would like to extend a special thanks to the Tennessee
Valley Authority, First National Bank, The Bank of Frankewing and
First Farmers and Merchants for working with us and have confidence in
the future of Saargummi."