175 new jobs coming to Little Rock with Welspun Tubular’s plant expansion

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — Line pipe manufacturer Welspun Tubular announced Thursday that it is making a $100 million investment to expand its plant in Little Rock.

The expansion is set to bring 175 new jobs to the plant that first came to Little Rock in 2007.

It will allow the company to expand its pipe portfolio to include pipe sizesup to 24-inch outside diameter and 0.750-inch wall thickness with grades up to X80 for a capacity of 350 KMTPA.

Company officials are expected to announce a groundbreaking on the expansion sometime in the coming weeks.

The expansion is set to be completed by December 2025 with production commencing in early 2026.

“This investment will enable us to further expand our leadership position in the oil and gas segment in the North American market by enriching our product portfolio,” said Welspun Corp Limited Managing Director and CEO Vipul Mathur. “Our outlook for the USA market remains extremely positive.”

Arkansas and Little Rock officials also spoke highly of the expansion.

“Welspun Tubular’s $100 million investment helps solidify the Port of Little Rock’s role as a manufacturing hub for Central Arkansas’ economy. Our access to river, rail and road, combined with low taxes and pro-business leadership, help get projects like this done quickly.” Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders said.

“As Mayor, my vision is to unite Little Rock and celebrate the diversity that makes our city a melting pot of people, religions, and sectors. Today’s announcement is proof that Little Rock is an attractive destination that welcomes investment from around the world,” Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr said. “This announcement further solidifies the necessity of expanding the Port of Little Rock to continue attracting investment that creates jobs for our residents.”

“Foreign direct investment is a key part of our economic development strategy in Arkansas, and it has paid off today with a significant investment from Welspun Tubular,” Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission said. “Thank you to the leadership team at Welspun for your investment and your confidence in Arkansas, we look forward to seeing your continued growth at the Port of Little Rock.”

For more information on Welspun Tubular, CLICK HERE.