A New York window-and-door manufacturer is holding off on plans to build a Selma factory and create about 500 jobs in Johnston County, citing economic and geopolitical factors.
Crystal Window & Door Systems last year announced plans to build a new factory and create jobs in Selma as part of an $83.7 million investment — a deal expected to grow the state’s economy by $1.09 billion. North Carolina commerce officials approved an incentives package for the project valued at $5.5 million, including a jobs incentives grant worth $4.1 million spread over 12 years.
In a letter to the state Department of Commerce this month, the company’s president asked to terminate the incentives deal. The department’s Economic Investment Committee, which oversees the state’s incentives deals, approved the request on Tuesday.
“At the time of application and award, Crystal fully intended to move forward with the proposed investment and job creation in Selma,” Thomas Chen, the company’s chairman, wrote to state officials on May 5. “However, due to a combination of unforeseen business, geopolitical and economic factors, Crystal has made the decision not to proceed with the project at this time.”
Chen and other representatives of the company didn’t respond to requests for additional information. The company, which is based in the Queens borough of New York City, has expanded rapidly in recent years.
The company, which makes windows for commercial and residential customers, sought to build the facility at the Eastfield Crossing development, east of the intersection of Interstate 95 and U.S. 70. The plant was expected to produce vinyl and aluminum windows and doors, helping the company keep up with increased demand — particularly in the Southeast.
Changes in trade policies, including modifications to tariffs on aluminum and glass, have increased the cost of windows. Aluminum prices have also surged since the start of the U.S. war in Iran.
Chen said in his letter to state officials that the decision to cancel the incentives deal “reflects a prudent and responsible approach given current market conditions and the company’s long-term strategic planning.” He added that the company would “welcome the opportunity to revisit potential investment in North Carolina as business conditions evolve.”