March 2014, Vol. 241 No. 3

Features

Welspun Changes, But Keeps Focus On Line Pipe

Welspun, the India-based corporation, made a key decision to build a line pipe mill in the state of Arkansas during the midst of the Great Recession. It was a gamble, but one predicated on the belief that the American shale industry was about to boom and they would be centrally located. Just as important was their understanding of what their commitment would mean to Arkansas and Little Rock, where local and state officials showed a willingness to provide incentives for the steel producer. But two other factors swept through the thoughts of Welspun officials: they would find dedicated employees, and they had given their word. On April 28, 2009 they celebrated the start-up of the