BSH to Invest $11M and Add 199 Jobs in Craven County Expansion

In a significant boost for the local economy, BSH Home Appliances Corporation, part of the Bosch Group, has announced the creation of 199 new jobs at its New Bern facility in Craven County. The company plans to invest over $11 million to transform this site into a central hub for innovation and manufacturing across the United States. This development positions North Carolina as a key player in the home appliance sector.

Governor Josh Stein highlighted the importance of this expansion, stating, “When globally known companies like BSH choose North Carolina for an expansion, it confirms the strength of our workforce.” He emphasized the state’s leading position in the Southeast for manufacturing jobs, anticipating that BSH’s investment will foster job growth and economic development in Craven County.

BSH, headquartered in Munich, Germany, with its North American base in California, is known for producing high-quality appliances under the Bosch, Thermador, and Gaggenau brands. This strategic expansion at the New Bern location will establish it as a central hub for cooking, dishwashing research, and manufacturing, as well as distribution and customer support in the U.S.

Darcy Clarkson, CEO of BSH Region North America, expressed optimism about the expansion, saying, “BSH’s manufacturing operation has called North Carolina home for many years, and this expansion is reflective of a valued relationship that’s deepening as we move forward.” Andy MacLaren, Chief Technology Officer of BSH Region North America, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the company’s longstanding connection to the New Bern community and the positive impact of the expansion.

Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley noted the strategic importance of the expansion, remarking, “BSH’s decision validates North Carolina’s reputation for manufacturing excellence.” He pointed out that the investment reflects the state’s commitment to cultivating a skilled workforce and robust training systems to attract businesses.

The groundwork for this expansion was laid during meetings between BSH, Secretary Lilley, and state officials in Germany. The new jobs will offer an average annual salary of $60,779, which surpasses the current average in Craven County and could inject over $12 million annually into the local economy.

To support this venture, North Carolina will provide a performance-based grant of $500,000 via the One North Carolina Fund. This fund aids local governments in drawing economic investment and job creation, with grants being contingent upon meeting specified job creation and capital investment markers.

Senator Bob Brinson and Representative Steve Tyson both lauded the expansion, underscoring its potential to provide well-paying jobs and stimulate regional growth. Tyson expressed gratitude for the collaboration between local and state agencies that facilitated this development.

Key partnerships that made this project possible include the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, North Carolina General Assembly, and other significant local and state entities, including educational institutions and energy providers.