Italian textile manufacturer Microtex Composites Inc. announced plans to open its first U.S. facility, a prepreg factory, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The state’s Department of Economic & Community Development (TNECD) disclosed that the company’s $3.8 million investment would create 26 jobs. 

Neither Microtex Composites nor TNECD revealed an expected production date or a specific location for the plant.

Inspired by Growth in Europe

The agency said that Microtex Composites had seen significant growth in its European markets, driven by rising demand from its aerospace and automotive customers. TNECD Commissioner Stuart McWhorter added that Chattanooga’s access to interstate, rail, and water made the city an ideal location for the company.

Microtex Composites Vice President Gianfranco Meschini credited the expansion to the company’s modern equipment that produces and supplies prepreg composites.

Chattanooga’s 2nd Economic Development Announcement in 2025

Microtex Composites’ project followed an announcement by battery technology company Novonix to add a second phase to its proposed $1 billion facility in Chattanooga. According to the Chattanooga Times Free Press, the expansion could increase the investment to $2.1 billion and bring total job creation to nearly 1,200 positions.

Adding to the Region’s Growth

The two facilities contributed to TNECD’s support of 16 projects in Southeast Tennessee since 2020, which generated over 2,500 job commitments and about $720 million in capital investment.

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