The trip will focus building long-term relationships with the Keter Group and Taditel, two companies with headquarters in Israel and significant operations in Anderson. Mayor Smith and Director Winkler will also meet with suppliers and other business operations connected with these companies.

HDP (Home Design Products), a member of the Keter Group, has a large operation located in Anderson along with another location in Madison County. While in Israel, Mayor Smith and Director Winkler will meet with the leadership of the Keter Group to discuss future opportunities for the Keter Group and the City of Anderson. “The Keter Group is now the largest producer of home plastic products in the world and we want to see them continue to grow in Anderson,” said Mayor Smith.

Taditel, an Israeli automotive electronics manufacturer, has also expanded since moving to Anderson. With Taditel’s new ownership and products, the North American market and Anderson are ready for growth. “In addition to attracting new companies such as GTI, Keihin, Hy-­-Pro, SES, Go Electric and Echo Automotive, we also want to assist our existing companies growth as they work to add jobs and investment in our City,” said Mayor Smith.

Many of the jobs and investment created in Anderson since 2004 have come as a result of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). This wave of foreign companies investing in Anderson includes 9 companies and is just over $1.2 Billion dollars.