PPG to Build $380M Aerospace Coatings Plant in North Carolina
PPG , a global leader in paints, coatings, and specialty materials, has announced a major expansion of its aerospace manufacturing capabilities with a $380 million investment to construct a new, state-of-the-art aerospace coatings and sealants production facility in Shelby, North Carolina. The initiative marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy and underscores its long-term commitment to meeting the rising global demand for aerospace materials.
The expansive 198,000-square-foot manufacturing facility will be built on a 62-acre site in Shelby. The facility will serve as a major hub for producing PPG’s full range of aerospace coatings and sealants and is expected to generate more than 110 new jobs in the region. Construction is scheduled to begin in October 2025, with project completion expected in the first half of 2027. Initial development will focus on manufacturing and warehousing operations, with potential for future expansion.
This strategic investment is being made in response to the rapidly growing demand for aerospace coatings and sealants as global air travel continues to rebound and expand, and as aircraft manufacturers ramp up production to meet rising airline fleet requirements. The new facility will increase PPG’s production capacity and strengthen its ability to deliver high-performance coatings and sealants to a global customer base.
“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,” said Tim Knavish, PPG Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “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.”
The Shelby facility will integrate advanced automation, Industry 4.0 technologies, and environmentally sustainable manufacturing processes. PPG has emphasized that sustainability and digital innovation are core elements of the project. The company plans to incorporate energy-efficient systems, waste-reduction initiatives, and digitized quality control technologies to ensure the facility meets the highest standards of operational excellence.
“We look forward to expanding our aerospace manufacturing footprint with this new facility,” said Sam Millikin, PPG Vice President, Global Aerospace. “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.”
Strategic Location
The site in Shelby was selected for its strategic advantages, including proximity to major transportation corridors and logistics hubs. North Carolina’s robust infrastructure, skilled labor force, and business-friendly climate have made it an attractive location for advanced manufacturing operations.
PPG’s decision to invest in North Carolina also reflects strong public-private collaboration. State and local leaders have welcomed the company’s investment as a significant boost to the regional economy.
“PPG knows what I know: North Carolina is the #1 state for manufacturing in the Southeast,” said North Carolina Governor Josh Stein. “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.”
PPG’s new facility is expected to have a multiplier effect on the local economy, creating indirect employment opportunities and driving growth in supporting industries such as logistics, engineering services, and construction.
Serving the Global Aerospace Market
PPG has long been a trusted supplier of advanced coatings and sealants to the aerospace industry, serving commercial, military, and general aviation sectors. Its aerospace coatings portfolio includes exterior and interior primers, topcoats, and specialty materials designed to meet the rigorous performance standards of aircraft manufacturers and operators.
The aerospace industry is undergoing a strong post-pandemic recovery, with demand being fueled by increased aircraft production rates, the growing need for lightweight materials, and the rising adoption of sustainable technologies. PPG’s new plant in Shelby positions the company to meet these needs with enhanced agility and responsiveness.
With its expanded footprint, PPG aims to ensure consistent product availability, reduced lead times, and improved service levels for its aerospace customers across North America and globally. The Shelby facility will operate alongside PPG’s existing aerospace manufacturing sites, providing a complementary production base and reinforcing supply chain resilience.
Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
PPG is aligning its operations with global sustainability goals and customer expectations for environmentally responsible products. The Shelby facility will reflect the company’s broader environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities. Sustainable manufacturing practices, such as water conservation, waste reduction, and emissions control, will be embedded into the facility’s operations.
The company is also committed to innovation in both product development and process engineering. By leveraging automation, real-time data analytics, and digital manufacturing technologies, PPG aims to enhance product quality, improve safety, and reduce overall manufacturing costs.
This investment is part of PPG’s multi-year growth strategy, which includes expanding capacity in high-demand segments and modernizing its global manufacturing footprint. The company continues to invest in R&D to develop next-generation materials that meet emerging needs in aerospace and other high-performance applications.
Community Engagement and Workforce Development
PPG’s investment in Shelby is not just about bricks and mortar—it’s also a commitment to people. The company is expected to collaborate with local colleges, technical schools, and workforce development agencies to recruit and train skilled employees for the new facility. The jobs created will span production, engineering, logistics, quality assurance, and maintenance functions.
PPG has a history of supporting community programs and STEM education initiatives, and the Shelby project will likely bring new community partnerships. As the company builds out its workforce, it is also expected to invest in employee training and career development, ensuring that workers have access to continuous learning and advancement opportunities.
With construction scheduled to begin in late 2025, the Shelby facility represents a long-term investment in aerospace excellence. The project reflects confidence in the strength of the aerospace market, the competitiveness of North Carolina’s manufacturing ecosystem, and PPG’s commitment to innovation and customer service.