GASTONIA - A Philadelphia-based distribution company with branches in Baltimore and

Charlotte has decided to expand its operation into Gaston County.

Bartlett Bearing Co., a distributor of products relating to the electro-mechanical repair

industry, is building a 10,000-square-foot facility on 2½ acres in Delta Industrial Park, which now has sold all its property.

Bartlett has been in business for more than 50 years and employs about 40 people nationwide.

About 10 to 15 jobs could be created in the Gaston County location, said Marc Bolick, project administrator with the Gaston County Economic Development Commission.

"I think it goes to show that the county’s receptive to business, no matter what size," Bolick said. "I think it’s just another solid business location. It’s a good fit for the park."

Bartlett officials chose Gaston County for several reasons, including its proximity to

Charlotte-Douglas International Airport and easy access to I-85 from N.C. 274, both of which they say should expedite the distribution process.

"We feel that building in Gaston County gave us the best value for our money," Bartlett

location manager Joe Wilkinson said in a statement.

This article appears as it was written in the Gaston Gazette by Jason Foster.