NILES, Ohio - A leading high-performance protective coatings and nano-composites company has announced plans to open a new facility in Niles.

According to a press release, United Protective Technologies LLC (UPT) is looking to open a new facility at 704 Warren Avenue in Niles to house research and development as well as commercial production functions to service regional clients. The project is supported by a $150,000 JobsOhio Revitalization Grant.

The new facility is expected to create 21 new positions for the area. UPT CEO Marty Efird says the new facility will be instrumental in expanding the company's R&D and production capabilities.

"Access to talent, an advanced manufacturing base and support from great organizations like JobsOhio, Team NEO, the City of Niles, the Youngstown Business Incubator and the Advanced Manufacturing and Applied Research Innovation Institute made locating our newest facility in Niles an easy decision," Efird said.

According to the release, Niles was chosen due to Northeast Ohio's advanced manufacturing prowess, market access, incentive support and the economic development partnerships that were fostered.

Niles Mayor Steve Mientkiewicz says he's excited to welcome the company into the city and described the company's transition into the city as "somewhat extensive, but seamless."

"We strive to bring new industry and jobs into the city and it's wonderful to have such an advanced, diverse company call Niles home," Mientkiewicz said.

UPT develops cutting edge technology in the field of coatings and surface treatments, which offer superior protection to coatings without harmful environmental byproducts.