WEIRTON — Less than a year after the closure of the rue21 distribution center in Weirton, a new business will be setting up shop in the building the clothing retailer once called home.

The Business Development Corp. of the Northern Panhandle announced Friday Memphis-based company Premium Guard Inc. would be locating a distribution operation in Weirton as part of a corporate expansion, moving into the building at 491 Park Drive, and creating 100 jobs.

“This announcement is a testament to the collaboration we have in West Virginia for economic development,” said BDC Executive Director Anthony Clements.

Clements said the announcement represents a $3 million investment from the company, with plans to begin operations in July.

Founded in 1996, Premium Guard specializes in manufacturing after-market oil, air, fuel and transmission filters for automobiles. Opening the Weirton location is part of an effort to increase the company’s production capacity and expand its distribution into Canada.

“We are thrilled to join the Weirton business community,” said Anan Bishara, CEO and founder of PGI. “This new facility will serve as PGI’s third distribution center, reinforcing our commitment to growth and strengthening our presence in the Ohio Valley. Beyond expanding our operations, we are excited about the opportunity to contribute to the local economy, create new jobs, and become an active part of the community. We look forward to building strong relationships and making a meaningful impact in Weirton.”

In addition to various automotive filters, Premium Guard manufactures wiper blades, power steering components, automotive tools and other car supplies and accessories. According to the company’s website, its brands of products include Premium Guard, Ecogard, PWR Steer, Pureflow, Highflow, Silblade, 5Micron and Premium Vision.

“We are thrilled to welcome Premium Guard into Brooke County,” said Brooke County Commissioner A.J. Thomas. “Their investment reinforces the rapid development of the Three Springs Drive corridor as one of the region’s key economic centers.”

The building Premium Guard has eyed is a 375,000-square-foot facility located on Park Drive, just beyond the Wal-Mart Supercenter. It was expanded by rue21 in 2012, increasing the number of employees there to around 140.

rue21 announced in May it would be closing its retail outlets and distribution centers as part of the company’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy process.