Truck tire recycling firm Ecore invests in Alabama

MONTGOMERY, Ala.—Ecore International, known for manufacturing performance vinyl flooring from recycled truck tires, will invest $25 million to renovate an existing facility in Ozark, Ala., for manufacturing.

The project is set to create 84 jobs, which will pay an average annual salary of nearly $42,500, according to the Alabama Department of Commerce.

Ecore CEO Art Dodge said the company has cooperated with the city of Ozark, Dale County and the state of Alabama to establish the recycling facility.

"Since its inception, Ecore has transformed over 2 billion pounds of rubber waste into surfaces that make people's lives better," Dodge said. "All Ecore manufacturing facilities are certified 'Zero Waste,' amplifying the company's commitment to environmental stewardship."

Gov. Kay Ivey welcomed the Lancaster, Pa.-based Ecore to Dale County, saying the largest converter of reclaimed rubber in North America "is a great addition to the business community."

"Its decision to locate an advanced manufacturing and recycling facility in Dale County will have a major economic impact on the rural area," she said. "This project in Ozark will bring good manufacturing jobs to the citizens there and spark new opportunities throughout the region."

According to Ecore, the company recycled more than 100 million pounds of truck tires—about 1 million truck tires—that were destined for landfills last year, turning the reclaimed material into rubberized floors for recreation and fitness centers, hospitality businesses and other industrial, commercial and residential applications.

"Ecore invests in more than its facilities—we invest in our people and in our communities because we believe that when our people and our communities prosper, we prosper," Dodge said.

Dale County officials said Ecore's plans to invest in Ozark will have a major impact on the region.

"I want to thank the team at Ecore International for (its) confidence in Ozark and Dale County," said Ozark Mayor Mark Blankenship. "We welcome the expansion of your company ... (and) we look forward to a great partnership with Ecore International."

Brenda Tuck, rural development manager for the Alabama Department of Commerce, said Ecore's recycling facility project is part of $3 billion in innovative projects launched in the region since 2020.

"Companies from around the world are discovering that Alabama's rural communities are an ideal location to bring their game-changing innovations to life," said Tuck. "The simple fact is these areas can offer growing businesses significant advantages that will magnify the impact of their investment and provide a launchpad for growth."