Australia-based manufacturer Era Polymers Corp., which specializes in polyurethane chemistry, will create 20 new jobs by opening its first American plant in Stanley, North Carolina, according to the N.C. Department of Commerce.

The company contributes strong sales growth for its decision to build a U.S. location. With its Stanley facility, Era Polymers hopes to better supply and service a growing customer base.

“Advanced manufacturers from around the world continue to choose North Carolina as the ideal place to expand,” Gov. Roy Cooper said in a statement. “Our skilled workforce combined with our central East Coast location enable international companies that locate here to serve customers efficiently across the United States and North America.”

The addition of the plant will help with economic growth in Stanley. The company plans to invest $9.2 million in Stanley

The average annual wage of the new jobs will be $66,250, well above the average wage in Gaston County, which is $38,780.

“Investments from international companies like Era Polymers are an important component of our state’s economy,” said Commerce Secretary Anthony Copeland in a statement. “North Carolina continues to attract these foreign direct investments due to our stellar reputation as a business location.”

A performance-based grant of $50,000 from the One North Carolina Fund, which provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs, will help facilitate the company’s move into Gaston County.

Era Polymers has been conducting business in the U.S. for over 15 years. With headquarters in Sydney, Australia, the company sells polyurethane products in over 70 countries.

The Stanley plant will join four production facilities in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.