Spartanburg Reporter

TIME Bicycles (TIME), a leading carbon fiber bicycle manufacturer, today announced plans to establish its first South Carolina operations in Spartanburg County to build the nation’s largest carbon fiber bicycle factory. The company’s $6.5 million investment will create 105 new jobs.
Founded in France in 1987, TIME is one of Europe’s most significant cycling brands, pioneering carbon fiber technology in professional cycling. A subsidiary of Cardinal Cycling Group (CCG), TIME manufactures bicycles that have won Olympic gold, multiple world championships, the Paris-Roubaix and numerous stages of the Tour de France.

Situated on 30 acres of land on the Saluda Grade Trail, TIME plans to renovate an existing 140,000-square-foot factory located at 19810 Asheville Highway in Landrum. The company will extend the capabilities of its European factory and produce industry leading carbon fiber bicycles and components using TIME’s exclusive resin transfer molding technology in conjunction with Clemson University, KraussMaffei and the SC Competes SC Fraunhofer USA Alliance initiative.

Renovations are expected to begin in April, and operations are expected to be begin in the fourth quarter. Individuals interested in joining the TIME Bicycles team should visit readySC.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to this project. The council also awarded a $400,000 Set-Aside grant to Spartanburg County to assist with the costs of building improvements.

“After two years of planning, we are thrilled to announce Spartanburg County as the TIME USA factory location. The infrastructure that exists within this region for advanced manufacturing is unrivaled. Through our collaboration with Clemson University, KraussMaffei and The SC Fraunhofer USA Alliance, we look to produce the most advanced carbon fiber bicycles in the world, with technologies and partnerships in place to rival production out of Asia." - TIME Bicycles Chief Executive Officer Tony Karklins

“It’s always a great day when a renowned company such as TIME Bicycles decides to invest in our state. TIME Bicycles’ $6.5 million investment will provide new opportunities for our people, and we congratulate them on making history in South Carolina.”  - Gov. Henry McMaster

“South Carolina’s robust advanced manufacturing attracts world-class companies like TIME Bicycles that understand the power of doing business here. Congratulations to TIME Bicycles on its significant investment, and we look forward to developing a strong partnership.” - Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are thrilled to welcome TIME Bicycles’ high-end bicycle manufacturing to Spartanburg County’s ever-growing advanced technology corporate family. TIME is a globally known brand, and they’re bringing some serious technology to their Landrum facility. Along with the impact of the investment and jobs, this will surely put Spartanburg on the global map for cycling. Many thanks to all of our partners – PAL, CUICAR, SCRA, SC Fraunhofer USA Alliance – for helping us roll out the red carpet for TIME Bicycles.” - Spartanburg County Councilman and Economic Development Committee Chairman David Britt

“Time Bicycles is a company built on making the best bikes in the world by utilizing innovation, technology and design. They are pushed by the challenge of constant improvement in mobility, and we are so proud that they have chosen Spartanburg County and the Upstate for their new facility.”  - Upstate SC Alliance President and Chief Executive Officer John Lummus

“We are thrilled that The SC Fraunhofer USA Alliance will enable TIME Bicycles to begin revolutionizing the cycling industry upon their arrival in the state. Known for pushing the advanced technology envelope, TIME has found just what they needed in our state’s technical applied research expertise and advanced composite materials suppliers, making it the perfect example of the advanced circular economy.” - SC Council on Competitiveness President and Chief Executive Officer Susie Shannon

“TIME Bicycles is a world-renowned brand with a deep Tour de France heritage that raises the profile of the developing cycling industry in South Carolina. The innovative company is developing and implementing advanced manufacturing processes to continually raise the bar and is an incredible fit with South Carolina's textile heritage and bright advanced manufacturing future. SCRA is thankful to have partnered with the South Carolina Department of Commerce, One Spartanburg, the Clemson Composite Center, and many community leaders and suppliers to successfully recruit TIME Bicycles.” – Cole Dudley, S.C. Research Authority Director of Industry Solutions

“Having TIME Bicycles in Spartanburg County is a tremendous win as we seek to create a community that supports safe, accessible and convenient recreation for users of all ability levels, including those elite riders that someone like TIME works with. TIME’s presence helps put Spartanburg County on the map among top cyclists from around the world. PAL: Play. Advocate. Live Well. is thrilled that Time will be locating along the future Saluda Grade Trail, which will be a major tourism and recreation destination. And, in case there is any question, this is another example of how trails drive economic development from small to international businesses.” – PAL Executive Director Laura Ringo

“This is a tremendous opportunity for Landrum. Biking enthusiasts from around the world will come to Landrum to visit and enjoy riding in some of the most beautiful areas anywhere. TIME Bicycles’ proximity to the future Saluda Grade Rail Trail was also a major factor in the decision, and we’re grateful for our fortunate geography. When completed, the 31-mile walking and biking path will provide a vehicular free riding experience. This announcement will further Landrum’s culture of live, work and play, and add to the quality of life for our city.” - Landrum Mayor Bob Briggs

FIVE FAST FACTS

•    TIME Bicycles (TIME) is establishing its first South Carolina operations in Spartanburg County to build the nation’s largest carbon fiber bicycle factory.

•    The company’s $6.5 million investment will create 105 new jobs.

•    TIME Bicycles is a leading carbon fiber bicycle manufacturer.

•    The site is located at 19810 Asheville Highway in Landrum, S.C.

• Individuals interested in joining the TIME Bicycles team should visit readySC.

Original source can be found here.