Oct. 23, 2006: Pulaski Plant to Add 125 Jobs Over Next 18 Months

As a result of successful business development initiatives, Felix Schoeller Technical Papers will make a multi-million dollar investment in new production equipment and facility improvements.

PULASKI, NY-- A dramatic increase in demand for digital imaging papers with new and existing customers will trigger a significant expansion of both production capabilities and capacities at the Felix Schoeller Technical Papers (FSTP) facility here.

Over the next 18 months, the company plans to make a multi-million dollar investment in new equipment, building refurbishment and other facility modernizations. FSTP expects to add 125 new full-time jobs, adding to the 80 full-time jobs here currently. The new jobs will be added in phases as new production lines are completed and begin operating.

FSTP also announced that it has launched a new employee recruitment campaign and intends to begin hiring new workers at once.

"We will triple our production capacity in the next six months," said Richard Paterson-Jones, CEO and head of North American operations, "and double our employment as well. This expansion will enhance our position within this expanding market and is solid proof of our commitment to digital imaging. The next 18 months are going to be very exciting."

Industry-wide, digital imaging is rapidly replacing conventional analog or film-based photography. FSTP's expansion of digital imaging capacity demonstrates its strategic commitment to the new technology.

In May 2005, declining demand for traditional photographic papers forced Felix Schoeller Technical Papers Inc. to shut down two of its three manufacturing lines in Pulaski. This action permanently eliminated 49 salaried and 96 hourly jobs. The company continued to operate its North American sales, marketing, customer service, logistics and converting activities in Pulaski.

"Now, with multiple production lines giving us more flexibility and greatly increased capabilities, customers for digital imaging papers can count on us for enhanced product lines, customized order assembly, improved logistics and faster response times," said James J. Walsh, FSTP Director, Digital Imaging.

Operations Manager James Belser credited support from local and state government officials, along with Operation Oswego County (economic development group) for providing critical assistance.

"Without the cooperation of our union employees, we wouldn't be here today. The United Steelworkers Local 1066 deserves a lot of credit for helping us reconfigure our operations so we could remain competitive and justify the investment," Belser said.

"Expanding existing local businesses and creating jobs for residents who are ready and willing to work are key elements of growing our economy and spurring other economic development in the region. I am pleased to join in this announcement today, and applaud Felix Schoeller Technical Papers for their commitment to operations in Oswego County," said Congressman John M. McHugh (R-NY).

“I am pleased to provide assistance for the expansion of Schoeller Technical Paper here in Pulaski. The planned expansion will help the company build on its already internationally successful business and provide new job opportunities for local residents. I applaud Schoeller for their dedication to Oswego County and look forward to the completion of this project,” said New York State Senator James W. Wright (46th District).
New York State Assemblyman Will Barclay (124th District) said, "This is one more example of government and local businesses partnering together in an effort to create jobs. I am happy that I was able to provide assistance and I thank Schoeller for their commitment to staying in Oswego County and expanding their facility."

“This is great news! Again, Sen. Wright, Assemblyman Barclay and Operation Oswego County have provided critical support to creating and retaining jobs in Oswego County,” said Oswego County Legislature Chairman Russ Johnson. “I applaud Felix Schoeller Technical Papers for their rising success and their commitment to growing jobs in Oswego County.”

Empire State Development Chairman Charles A. Gargano said, “This investment and these jobs are great news for Oswego County. Governor Pataki has made job creation and economic development a priority of his administration, and this project proves that New York State is a great place for businesses looking to locate or grow. I commend this company on its decision to invest in Pulaski.”

“We are especially proud to announce this project because it is yet another example of a successful collaboration between our public and private economic development partners that has not only helped to grow Felix Schoeller Technical Papers in Oswego County but it has helped ensure its future growth and prosperity here,” said L. Michael Treadwell, CEcD, executive director of Operation Oswego County and secretary/treasurer of the County of Oswego Industrial Development Agency.

Established in 1966, FSTP is part of Felix Schoeller jr GmbH of Osnabrueck, Germany. The company also has facilities in Germany, Canada, and China and employs approximately 2500 people worldwide. In addition to photographic and digital imaging papers, Felix Schoeller also manufactures decorative laminating and technical specialty papers.

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