Southern Ionics, a producer of specialty chemical products for water treatment and other industrial applications, is investing $34 million in its Tuscaloosa facility, creating seven new jobs averaging $45 an hour.
The company manufactures sodium bisulfite. With the expansion to its plant on Reichhold Road, the company will be able to increase production and add a new product line. Construction is slated to begin in the fourth quarter of this year, with the plant expecting to be fully operational by second quarter of 2027.
“We’ve been proud to operate in Tuscaloosa for many years, and this expansion represents our confidence that we can continue to be successful here,” said Joe Stevens, president and COO of Southern Ionics. “The sodium bisulfite we produce is essential to industries across the region, and this investment strengthens our operations while adding well-paying jobs that support local families.”
The Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority approved a tax abatement package as part of the investment. The incentives include the abatement of non-educational sales and use taxes for purchases of equipment and building materials during the construction phase of the project and an abatement of the non-education ad valorem taxes on certain real and personal property for up to 10 years.
Authority officials say the company will be eligible for tax abatements in an estimated amount of $1.7 million. During the first 10 years of operations, the project is estimated to contribute more than $830,000 in property tax revenue for education from initial investment alone. TCEDA estimates the project will contribute more than $3.2 million during its first 20 years in certain taxes generated from the company and direct employee spending.
“When a company with operations throughout the Southeast chooses to reinvest here, it demonstrates trust in our people and resources,” said Steven Rumsey, chair of the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority. “This expansion brings high-quality jobs and significant investment to our community, and highlights what makes Tuscaloosa special — our skilled workforce, supportive leadership and a community that values both business success and quality of life. Furthermore, it reflects the kind of steady, long-term growth we strive to support.”
Southern Ionics was founded in Mobile in 1980 and is family owned and operated.
