Engineered Fabrics Corp. to Expand in Polk County

Company will invest $5 million in new building, add 150 workers

ATLANTA – Governor Sonny Perdue announced today that Engineered Fabrics Corporation, a leading fuel tank supplier for the U.S. military, will expand its current location in Rockmart. The company will invest $5 million in a new building and add 150 workers to its present 700-member workforce.

"We're delighted that Engineered Fabrics chose Georgia as the best place to grow its business," said Governor Perdue. "The company will remain a valuable asset to our aviation industry, a strategic focus for our state."

Engineered Fabrics Corporation (EFC), a subsidiary of K and F Industries, is the leading supplier of flexible bladder fuel tanks for the U.S. military, world wide commercial transport and general aviation. The company chose to expand in Georgia rather than expanding in Alabama or Florida, and will construct a 60,000-square-foot expandable building on its current property on Goodyear Street in Rockmart. EFC plans to begin construction this month and start plant operations in early 2008. 

Kenneth M. Schwartz, K & F Industries president and chief executive officer, stated, "EFC has experienced tremendous growth in orders, particularly from military programs such as the KC-135 aerial refueling plane and the V-22 vertical takeoff and landing aircraft.  Our new facility will enable us to meet the requirements for these and other important programs, and ensure sufficient capacity for the future."

"Anytime we see an existing industry expand, it's positive," said Steve Smith, chairman of the Rockmart Development Authority. "We are appreciative of the long history we have had with this company and we look forward to many more years of continued growth and economic success."

Engineered Fabrics Corporation (EFC) manufactures flexible fuel tanks made from rubber-impregnated polyester, polypropylene, polyurethane or nylon fabric for fixed-wing military aircraft and both military and commercial helicopters. The company also makes and sells inflatable oil booms, towable storage bladders and other products made for military and commercial uses. EFC is the only FAA-certified U.S. supplier of polyurethane manufactured fuel tanks, which feature proprietary "selfsealing" technology, significantly reducing the potential for fires, leaks and fuel spills.

K&F Industries Holdings, Inc., headquartered in White Plains, N.Y., is a worldwide leader in the manufacture of braking equipment for commercial transport, general aviation and military aircraft through its Aircraft Braking Systems Corporation subsidiary. Its products are installed on approximately 26,000 aircraft worldwide, more than any other supplier. In addition, K&F Industries operates Engineered Fabrics Corporation (EFC), a leading producer of aircraft fuel tanks, de-icing equipment and specialty coated fabrics used for storage, shipping, environmental and rescue applications for the commercial and military markets.