The company will invest more than $17 million and create 42 jobs in Oxford, according to Perdue’s office.

“North Carolina is home to more nonwoven textile plants than anywhere else in the United States, and the U.S. is home to more nonwoven textile plants than anywhere else in the world,” Perdue said. “Our business-friendly policies, superb quality of life and skilled, productive workforce are helping companies build success in our state.”

Shalag Industries, headquartered in Upper Galilee, Israel, produces nonwoven fabrics primarily from polypropylene, polyester and viscose fibers. The fabric is used in the production of dry and wet wipes, diapers and personal hygiene products. The company’s major customers include Johnson & Johnson, Nicepak and Kimberly Clark.

The company, which has one manufacturing plant in Israel, plans to construct a facility in Oxford, where fibers will be thermo-bonded into nonwoven fabric. The project’s 42 new jobs will pay an average annual wage of $39,966, not including benefits, which is higher than the Granville County average annual wage of $33,020, according to the state.

“Shalag is looking forward to becoming a successful corporate citizen in North Carolina and in Oxford,” company CEO Ilan Pickman said. “North Carolina is a recognized center for nonwoven manufacturing and R&D and we have identified here a strong infrastructure to support our business.”

The company received a $110,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund. The fund provides financial assistance, through local governments, to attract business projects that will stimulate economic activity and create new jobs in the state. Companies receive no money up front and must meet job-creation and investment performance standards to qualify for grant funds. The grants also require and are contingent upon local matches.