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COLUMBIA (WACH, AP) -- A company that makes canoes and kayaks says it is expanding its operations in Greenville County.

Confluence Watersports said Wednesday it will spend more than $13 million and add 72 jobs over the next five years.

“South Carolina is home to a range of manufacturing companies, both large and small. Confluence Watersports’ decision to grow its footprint in our state is another sign manufacturing continues to thrive in our state,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.

The company plans to consolidate a manufacturing facility and a distribution operation into a single building. The conversion is expected to be completed by the end of the year. It also makes paddles and other boat accessories.

“It was important for us to consolidate our teams and all operations into one building while at the same time providing for expansion. The new Greenville facility allows us to retain our workforce and gain efficiencies across the organization that will translate back into investments for our aggressive growth plan,” said Sue Rechner, president and CEO of Confluence Watersports.  “This site will also help us achieve an important goal of providing a better quality of work life for our team.  We’re excited to grow our business in the Upstate and appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials.”

Confluence produces popular brands such as Wilderness Systems, Perception, Dagger, and Mad River Canoe.

The company plans to begin hiring for the new positions next month.

If you're interested in applying for the new jobs, you can send a resume to:

(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)