Welspun Corp Invests $100 Million to Expand Little Rock Facility
Welspun Corp has announced a significant $100 million investment to expand its Little Rock, Arkansas, facility. This initiative aims to double the plant’s annual production capacity from 175,000 tonnes to 350,000 tonnes, strengthening Welspun’s role as a key supplier for North America’s energy infrastructure.
The expansion includes upgrades to enable the production of pipes with diameters up to 24 inches and wall thicknesses of 0.75 inches, including grades up to X80. These advancements address the increasing demand for robust, high-grade pipelines to support oil, gas, and emerging clean energy industries like hydrogen and ammonia. Scheduled for completion by March 2026, the expanded facility will begin production in the first quarter of that year.
Creating jobs and boosting the local economy
Welspun’s investment is set to create 175 new jobs, delivering a significant boost to Little Rock’s economy. The additional employment opportunities will strengthen the region’s workforce, particularly in skilled trades, manufacturing, and operational roles.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders underscored the importance of this expansion citing “The Port of Little Rock is quickly becoming the center of economic development for our region – and today’s groundbreaking is only going to continue that.” The economic ripple effects of this project will benefit local suppliers, businesses, and service providers.
Strengthening Welspun’s role in North America’s energy sector
Welspun Corp has maintained a strong presence in Little Rock since 2007, investing over $300 million to date. The upgraded facility will cater to the increasing demand for large-diameter pipelines used in oil, gas, hydrogen, and ammonia transport. With advanced manufacturing capabilities, including X80-grade steel, Welspun ensures its products meet the stringent requirements of both traditional and clean energy sectors.
The Port of Little Rock continues to attract large-scale investments, thanks to its strategic infrastructure. The combination of river, rail, and road access ensures efficient transport of raw materials and finished goods across the United States, giving manufacturers like Welspun a competitive edge.
The enhanced facility integrates state-of-the-art technologies to improve efficiency, precision, and resource optimization while minimizing waste and energy consumption. The project’s completion by March 2026 will mark a major milestone in Welspun’s journey, as a model of modern manufacturing. Additionally, the investment will contribute to the creation of jobs, strengthening manufacturing capabilities, and supporting clean energy sectors.
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