LaFayette, GA (December 21, 2021) GE Appliances, a Haier company, will invest $118 million to expand manufacturing operations at its Roper Corporation plant in Walker County, creating 600 new jobs.
“Roper Corporation has been a key part of Walker County for almost 50 years,” said Roper Corporation President Lois Crandell. “Our relationships are strong and we have thrived here.”
Scheduled for completion in 2024, the expansion will increase the company’s production capacity, provide for the addition of advanced manufacturing technology, and boost employment to 2,600 in Walker County. The LaFayette plant produces cooktops, free-standing ranges and wall ovens under the Monogram®, Café™, GE Profile™, GE®, Haier and Hotpoint brands.
“This decision didn’t happen overnight,” said Walker County Economic Development Director Robert Wardlaw. “Over the past couple of years, our team has focused on removing obstacles that hinder job growth, including housing and transportation. We have an amazing relationship with the folks at Roper and GE Appliances and I’m thankful for their willingness to partner with us on solutions.”
Along with increasing housing opportunities, Walker County launched a new transit route this year specifically for Roper’s workforce. The route provides Roper employees on first shift with reliable transportation to and from the plant, with direct pick-up and drop-off locations in Rossville, Chickamauga and LaFayette.
“Roper Corporation has also been a valuable corporate citizen for many decades,” said Walker County Board of Commissioners Chairman Shannon Whitfield. “We admire their commitment to community outreach and are grateful for their continued desire to grow locally. This expansion will provide opportunities to strengthen our workforce, and the community as a whole.”
Roper employees regularly volunteer with local community organizations. In addition, the company has donated generators, flashlights, cell phone chargers and coolers to tornado victims and appliances and critical supplies to healthcare workers, firefighters, paramedics and law enforcement officers.
“Roper Corporation is a key member of our community and I’m thrilled to see them continue to grow,” said LaFayette Mayor Andy Arnold, who also serves as Chair of the Walker County Development Authority. “I’m also grateful for the partnership with Senator Jeff Mullis, the Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority and the state of Georgia that helps local industry thrive by being responsive to their needs.”
Roper Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of GE Appliances, a Haier company. To apply for open positions, go to https://ropercorp.com/work-with-us/.
