Peach Tree Times

Atlanta, GA - Governor Brian P. Kemp has announced that Doowon Climate Control America, Inc., an auto parts manufacturer and supplier, will invest over $30 million in a new manufacturing facility in Metter, creating 200 new jobs in Candler County. This is the second automotive supplier to be announced in Candler County in less than six months.

Governor Kemp emphasized Georgia's growth as a national leader in auto manufacturing and how it benefits communities across the state. He stated, "In fiscal year 2023, alone, 82 percent of new jobs created and more than $20 billion of investments went to communities outside the metro Atlanta area. The City of Metter and Candler County are key beneficiaries of that success, and we are excited for Doowon Climate Control America, Inc. to join this community."

Doowon Climate Control America, Inc., established in Korea in 1974, specializes in designing and manufacturing automotive climate control systems. The company will be a key supplier for Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia and Hyundai Motor Group.

Ki Chun Sung, CEO of Doowon Climate Control America, Inc., expressed optimism about the company's investment in the United States. He said, "Doowon Climate Control America, Inc. is making significant investments to establish itself as Doowon Group’s inaugural automotive air conditioning system production facility in the United States. The company is optimistic that its technological expertise and industry experience will play a vital role in the growth of the local community."

The new manufacturing facility will be located in the Metter-Candler County I-16 Industrial Park, and it will primarily produce climate control systems for traditional and electric vehicles. Operations are expected to begin in 2026.

Metter Mayor Ed Boyd expressed his excitement about Doowon Climate Control America, Inc. becoming a new corporate citizen in Metter. He said, "Bringing 200 jobs and over $30 million in investment to our community, Doowon Climate Control America, Inc. is advancing the growth in desirable manufacturing employment for the citizens of our area."

Glyn Thrift, Chairman of the Candler County Board of Commissioners, also expressed his delight in Doowon Climate Control America, Inc.'s investment. He said, "We are so pleased that Doowon Climate Control America, Inc. chose to invest in Metter. It is wonderful to see these global companies appreciate the value of our people, our community, and our role in state and worldwide industrial development."

The Georgia Department of Economic Development's Global Commerce team, along with various partners, facilitated the project. Alyce Thornhill, Director of Project Implementation and Supplier Strategy represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development on this competitive project.

GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson praised the City of Metter and Candler County for their investment in site preparation, which led to the success of attracting Doowon Climate Control America, Inc. to Georgia. He said, "Congratulations to Doowon Climate Control America, Inc. and our community partners."

Georgia has been fostering healthy industry practices and positioning itself as a leader in developing emerging technologies for the automotive and mobility industry. The state has attracted over $25.7 billion in investments and created 30,200 jobs since 2018. In fiscal year 2023, job creation in the automotive industry increased by 324 percent compared to FY21, with over $2 billion in investment across the state.

Doowon Group, the parent entity of Doowon Climate Control America, Inc., is an international corporation headquartered in South Korea. The company has a workforce exceeding 3,125 employees and achieved a sales revenue of over $1.9 billion in fiscal year 2023. As a specialized manufacturer of automotive air conditioning systems, Doowon Group has advanced technological capabilities to develop and produce air conditioning systems for all types of vehicles.

With Doowon Climate Control America, Inc.'s investment, Candler County continues to strengthen its position in the automotive manufacturing industry and create valuable employment opportunities for the local community.