COLUMBIA, S.C. – City Roots, a family-owned urban farm and agribusiness destination, today announced plans to expand operations in Richland County. The company’s $4.4 million investment will create 60 new jobs over the next five years.

Established in 2009, City Roots serves top restaurants, chefs, grocery retailers and food distributors across the Southeast. From microgreens to baby herbs, City Roots produces fresh, organic vegetables locally. Known for sustainable farming, City Roots strives to educate the community through farm tours – incorporating the benefits of environmentally friendly farming practices.

Located at 1630 Longwood Road in Columbia, City Roots’ expansion to a new site will allow the company to create a microgreen-integrated production facility. The operation will include a state-of-the-art greenhouse structure, which will be open for agricultural tours and workshops for new and beginning farmers. The site will also include a solar farm that will provide energy for the facility’s needs.

The expansion is expected to be complete by spring 2023. Individuals interested in joining the City Roots team should visit the company’s contact page.

Quotes

“City Roots is excited to expand its organic farm and greenhouse production in Richland County. The new facility will be highly efficient, sustainable and will continue to employ and feed people here in our local community.”

– City Roots Co-Founder Eric McClam

“City Roots is another testament that agribusiness in South Carolina continues to flourish. We are proud that a family-owned business such as City Roots continues to grow in Richland County, and we congratulate them on their $4.4 million investment and the 60 new jobs that they will create.”

-Gov. Henry McMaster

“We are excited that City Roots continues to thrive throughout the Richland County community and beyond. City Roots’ innovative approach to urban farming and agribusiness education is to be commended, and we look forward to their continued positive impact.”

-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Since 2009, City Roots has been connecting South Carolinians to farming while also flourishing as an agribusiness. This next step in their development is a great step for the microgreen industry and for South Carolina. We’re proud of this homegrown talent.”

-Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers

“City Roots has left a wonderful impact on the Richland County community with its locally grown products going to restaurants and grocery retailers that serve our residents’ food needs. Council is pleased to see this family-owned business invest in new facilities and is excited for the additional growth and jobs this investment will bring.”

-Richland County Council Chairman Overture Walker

Five Fast Facts

• City Roots is expanding operations in Richland County.
• The company’s $4.4 million investment will create 60 new jobs over the next five years.
• City Roots is a family-owned urban farm and agribusiness destination.
• Located at 1630 Longwood Road in Columbia, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the City Roots team should visit the company’s contact page.

About S.C. Department of Commerce

As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. S.C. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Samsung, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. S.C. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. With a strong international footprint, the Palmetto State has consistently been among the top in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign direct investment on a per capita basis – recognized by multiple economic development publications for its pro-business climate. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Alex Clark, CMP
Director of Marketing & Communications
South Carolina Department of Commerce
(803) 737-1998
aclark@sccommerce.com
www.SCcommerce.com

INDIAN LAND, S.C. – Nutramax Laboratories, an industry-leading manufacturer and marketer of nutritional supplement products for people and pets, today announced plans to expand operations in Lancaster County. The company’s $30 million investment will create ­­­­approximately 200 new jobs.

For 30 years, Nutramax Laboratories has been researching and developing high-quality nutritional supplement products. In 2010, the company conducted a multi-state site search and moved its animal health business and corporate operations to Lancaster County and, since that time, has been actively engaged in the Lancaster community, providing support to local schools and churches, area law enforcement and fire services, numerous small businesses and many local charitable organizations. Nutramax Laboratories operates facilities in both South Carolina and Maryland and continues to be an industry leader in setting and adhering to high standards in research, manufacturing and quality control.   

In addition to three existing locations in Lancaster, Nutramax Laboratories’ new facility will be located at 785 Fort Mill Highway in Indian Land and will house additional warehousing, distribution and future manufacturing capabilities.

Individuals interested in joining the Nutramax Laboratories team should visit the company’s careers page.  The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to this project. The council has also awarded a $500,000 Set-Aside grant to Lancaster County to assist with costs related to this project.

QUOTES

“We are pleased to continue to grow in Lancaster County. With this newest expansion to the Indian Land area, we will continue providing a positive impact that goes beyond our economic development commitments. For 30 years, we have been blessed with a fantastic team of employees committed to delivering the very best to our consumers. Our values of glorifying God, serving our people, supporting our community and pursuing excellence have created an unwavering guide to fulfilling our mission.”

– Nutramax Laboratories President and CEO Todd Henderson, DVM

“When leading companies like Nutramax Laboratories find long-term success in our state, it shows the business-friendly environment we have created allows companies to thrive. The approximately 200 new jobs this expansion will create will greatly benefit Lancaster County, and we look forward to Nutramax Laboratories’ continued success in South Carolina.” 

– Gov. Henry McMaster

“Nutramax Laboratories’ expansion highlights the growth that life sciences companies are experiencing throughout South Carolina. We congratulate them on their expansion and look forward to a strong partnership for many years to come.”

– Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are excited that Nutramax is adding a fourth location in Lancaster County. They are demonstrating how businesses not only can succeed, but thrive in Lancaster County. They are a great corporate citizen and embody our economic development tagline – where big ideas become reality.”

– Lancaster County Council Chair Steve Harper

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Nutramax Laboratories is expanding operations in Lancaster County.
• The company’s $30 million investment will create approximately 200 new jobs.
• Nutramax Laboratories is an industry-leading manufacturer and marketer of nutritional supplement products for people and pets.
• In addition to three existing locations in Lancaster, Nutramax Laboratories’ new facility will be located at 785 Fort Mill Highway in Indian Land, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Nutramax Laboratories team should visit the company’s careers page.

About S.C. Department of Commerce

As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. S.C. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Samsung, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. S.C. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. With a strong international footprint, the Palmetto State has consistently been among the top in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign direct investment on a per capita basis – recognized by multiple economic development publications for its pro-business climate. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Alex Clark, CMP
Director of Marketing & Communications
South Carolina Department of Commerce
(803) 737-1998
aclark@sccommerce.com
www.SCcommerce.com

COLUMBIA, S.C. – LaserForm & Machine, Inc. (LaserForm & Machine), a metal fabrication and machine shop, today announced plans to expand operations in Richland County. The company is investing $5 million and creating 51 new jobs.

LaserForm & Machine produces low- and high-volume quantities to meet customers’ needs. The company’s services include laser cutting, forming, turret punching, welding, machining and powder coating.

Located at 10010 Farrow Road in Columbia, LaserForm & Machine is adding 20,000 square feet at its manufacturing facility to expand production capabilities.

The expansion is expected to be complete by March 2023. Individuals interested in joining the LaserForm & Machine team should visit the company’s contact page.

QUOTES

“We are excited to partner with Richland County in expanding our Columbia operations. LaserForm & Machine’s expansion represents a significant investment in our associates and manufacturing capabilities which will allow us to not only continue to meet current market demand but position us to aggressively pursue future opportunities. It is reassuring to know our operations are in a county that comes alongside its resident business partners to support growth in the county and this state.”

– LaserForm & Machine, Inc. Plant Manager Chris M. Cromer

“Today’s announcement by LaserForm & Machine is another big win for Richland County and our entire state. We congratulate this company on their growth and look forward to supporting them as they continue to expand.”

– Gov. Henry McMaster

“We are excited to see LaserForm & Machine grow in Richland County. When an existing industry expands within our borders, it exemplifies the message that South Carolina is an ideal location for companies to find success. Congratulations to LaserForm & Machine’s $5 million additional investment and 51 new jobs.”

– Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“LaserForm & Machine has called Richland County home for nearly 30 years, and it’s exciting to see the company continue to thrive and grow. Council is happy to see one of our community’s longtime employers continue to create additional well-paying jobs.”

– Richland County Council Chairman Overture Walker

FIVE FAST FACTS

• LaserForm & Machine, Inc. (LaserForm & Machine) is expanding operations in Richland County.
• The company’s $5 million investment will create 51 new jobs.
• LaserForm & Machine is a metal fabrication and machine company.
• Located at 10010 Farrow Road in Columbia, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the LaserForm & Machine team should visit the company’s contact page.

About S.C. Department of Commerce

As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. S.C. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Samsung, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. S.C. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. With a strong international footprint, the Palmetto State has consistently been among the top in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign direct investment on a per capita basis – recognized by multiple economic development publications for its pro-business climate. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Alex Clark, CMP
Director of Marketing & Communications
South Carolina Department of Commerce
(803) 737-1998
aclark@sccommerce.com
www.SCcommerce.com

As the saying goes, we live in interesting times. While change is a constant, the kind of change certainly is not. The unique mix of rising interest rates and inflation, supply change disruption, and pandemic recovery creates unprecedented challenges for private and public stakeholders alike in the realm of economic recruitment and development.

Yet where lies challenges opportunity emerges, and those who respond quickly with smart strategies will lay the groundwork for long-term success for those companies and communities that are relying on them to create a prosperous future.

Of course, no company or county is an island, and collaboration among private and public players has been and continues to be a critical part of success in this arena. So is data, the kind that helps inform both those communicating the attributes of a community and those who need to understand the potential the community offers their expanding or relocating enterprises.

The South Carolina I-77 Alliance offers the mix of analytics and people needed to help attract capital investment and high-quality manufacturing, distribution, and office jobs to the five-county corridor between Charlotte and Columbia.

A Staff of Two, A Team of Dozens

Together, we’re executing a multi-faceted strategy to elevate the corridor’s visibility and reputation as a premier place to do business. This year, that includes growing our Alliance-sourced and external leads by 15% and 10% respectively while simultaneously growing online engagement and interaction by 10%.

Site-selection consultant visits also are a priority, and we keep our Economic Data Center – a dynamic database of key demographic and site availability information – as current as possible. Importantly, too, we’ll continue to build on incorporating the experience and commitment of our region’s business community into the recruitment effort.

A Whole Greater Than Its Parts

York, Lancaster, Chester, Fairfield, and Richland counties already are enjoying an impressive run of new projects and expansions by international and domestic firms alike, companies from across the industrial spectrum who recognize the area’s ideal mix of location, logistics, workforce, and living options from urban to suburban to rural.

We encourage you to consider joining the effort. The Alliance offers four levels of direct investor opportunity, with a list of benefits that grows with the financial commitment. Your participation helps ensure that rather than duplicating marketing efforts, we build on a synergy – a whole greater than its parts – that already has produced notable progress and the expectation of much more in the years ahead.

Check out our 2021-2022 annual plan here. Contact us to find out more about investing in the Alliance and the economic future of South Carolina’s I-77 Corridor. Together we can leverage those opportunities as together we invest locally and compete globally.

Challenges yield opportunities. The global economy is certainly facing multiple difficulties right now, and as any successful investor can tell you, that makes this a good time to prepare for the inevitable turnaround.

The South Carolina I-77 Alliance is doing just that. Our job is to collaborate with public and private stakeholders to help recruit new and existing companies to establish or expand operations here in the five counties from Charlotte to Columbia.

We do that by adding value in some very fundamental ways to the recruitment process. That includes sourcing, identifying, and targeting specific companies considering corporate expansion. We also focus on data-driven marketing and branding of our region as an ideal location for economic growth.

Those strategies underpin what we do and they don’t change as we move through economic cycles. The tactics vary depending on conditions – such as pandemic-induced travel shutdowns – yet our approach remains consistent.

We also have specific goals for each of our three primary strategies for the year:

• A 15% increase in leads sourced by the Alliance.
• A 10% increase in projects supported by the Alliance.
• A 10% increase in social media engagement and website traffic.

The technology? We use B2B sales intelligence platforms, our own trove of market data, and sophisticated analytics tools to create and target audiences as effectively and efficiently as possible through multiple digital channels.

In addition, we plan to ramp up face-to-face activity through trips and visits this year. We look forward to sharing with you in the months ahead how our holistic approach to lead generation and economic development has helped our five counties – Richland, Fairfield, Chester, Lancaster, and York – add to our region’s impressive list of announcements.

Those announcements are from companies who have taken the long view of their market opportunities and our community’s ability to help deliver on that promise. Invest locally, compete globally. That’s a motto for us, and now is a great time to show why the I-77 corridor is a great place to commit time, money, and people for future growth.

LANCASTER, SC – U.S. Strapping Company, Inc., a division of FROMM Group, today announced plans to expand its operations in Lancaster County. The company’s $34.6 million investment will create 63 new jobs.

Established in 1947 and headquartered in Switzerland, FROMM Group is a market-leading manufacturer with years of experience in the development, sales and service of a wide range of packaging products for securing and protecting transport loads around the world.

Located at 234 Grace Avenue in Lancaster, the newly purchased building will be U.S. Strapping Company, Inc.’s second facility in the county and will allow the company to significantly increase its polyester (PET) strap manufacturing capacity. The state-of-the-art operation will also be a master distribution center for domestic and export sales.

The expansion is expected to be complete by March 2023. Individuals interested in joining the U.S. Strapping Company, Inc. team should email the company.

QUOTES

“Lancaster, S.C. is an ideal location for us to further expand and invest in our operations in the USA. The expansion strategy will help us to meet our increasing customers’ demands now and in the future. We have received exceptional cooperation and support from the Lancaster County Department of Economic Development and the South Carolina Department of Commerce.”

FROMM Group, Switzerland Chief Executive Officer Matthias Schwarzenbach

“Over the past few years Lancaster County has seen rapid economic growth, and today’s announcement by FROMM Group and their U.S. Strapping Company, Inc. division will further that trend. We thank U.S. Strapping Company, Inc. for their commitment to Lancaster and South Carolina.” 

Gov. Henry McMaster

“When an existing company in South Carolina grows, it proves we have the business environment and workforce for companies to find sustained success. Congratulations on today’s expansion announcement by FROMM Group and their U.S. Strapping Company, Inc. division in Lancaster County, and we look forward to working with them for many more years.”

Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“It’s another golden day in Lancaster County with FROMM Group’s expansion of their Lancaster manufacturing operations. We couldn’t be more excited to see this project come to fruition and the business activity it will be bring to a strategically important industrial location. We are very pleased that FROMM Group recognized the outstanding business climate in Lancaster County and look forward to our continued partnership with this outstanding company.”

Lancaster County Department of Economic Development Executive Director James Gilbert

FIVE FAST FACTS

• U.S. Strapping Company., Inc, a division of FROMM Group, is expanding operations in Lancaster County.
• $34.6 million investment to create 63 new jobs.
• U.S. Strapping Company, Inc. manufactures and sells plastic packaging materials.
• Located at 234 Grace Avenue in Lancaster, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the U.S. Strapping Company, Inc. team should email the company. 

About S.C. Department of Commerce

As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. S.C. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Samsung, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. S.C. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. With a strong international footprint, the Palmetto State has consistently been among the top in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign direct investment on a per capita basis – recognized by multiple economic development publications for its pro-business climate. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Alex Clark, CMP
Director of Marketing & Communications
South Carolina Department of Commerce
(803) 737-1998
aclark@sccommerce.com
www.SCcommerce.com

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FORT MILL, SC – Samuel Packaging Systems Group, a division of Samuel, Son & Co. (USA) Inc., today announced plans to expand operations in York County. The company’s $11.5 million investment will create an estimated 20 new jobs. 

Samuel Packaging Systems Group is a complete, single-source supplier for clients’ packaging and unitizing needs. The company specializes in polyester (PET) strapping, a lower cost and more durable alternative to steel strap.

Located at 2000 Boyer Road in Fort Mill, Samuel Packaging Systems Group’s expansion will upgrade existing production lines and will include the purchase of a new PET strand line. The current facility was opened in 1996 and is approximately 203,300 square feet.

The expansion is expected to be complete in the first quarter of 2023. Individuals interested in joining the Samuel Packaging Systems Group team should visit the company’s careers page.

QUOTES

“Samuel arrived in York Country in 1996 with two production lines and 25 new jobs. With the support of York County, we have grown to four production lines and over 90 jobs, and additional jobs when the fifth line arrives. Samuel is a global provider of plastic strapping and invests where we have success. The support of York County is a great example of a partnership that creates success.” 

Samuel Packaging Systems Group President Cy Slifka

“When an existing company in South Carolina expands, it further solidifies our state’s reputation of having a superior business climate. Today, we celebrate Samuel Packaging Systems Group’s growth in York County, and we look forward to their success for many years to come.” 

Gov. Henry McMaster

“Congratulations to Samuel Packaging Systems Group on their growth in York County. This $11.5 million investment and estimated 20 additional jobs are an added boost to the area, and we celebrate their success within our borders.”

Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“York County is proud to see Samuel Packaging Systems Group expand as they make this new investment and create additional jobs within our community. It is always good news for our county and our state when one of our existing manufacturers expands. We look forward to watching them continue to grow.”

York County Council Chairwoman Christi Cox

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Samuel Packaging Systems Group is expanding operations in York County.
• The company’s $11.5 million investment will create an estimated 20 new jobs. 
• Samuel Packaging Systems Group is a complete, single-source supplier for clients’ packaging and unitizing needs.
• Located at 2000 Boyer Road in Fort Mill, S.C., the facility was opened in 1996 and is approximately 203,300 square feet.
• Individuals interested in joining the Samuel Packaging Systems Group team should visit the company’s careers page

About S.C. Department of Commerce

As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. S.C. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Samsung, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. S.C. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. With a strong international footprint, the Palmetto State has consistently been among the top in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign direct investment on a per capita basis – recognized by multiple economic development publications for its pro-business climate. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Alex Clark, CMP
Director of Marketing & Communications
South Carolina Department of Commerce
(803) 737-1998
aclark@sccommerce.com
www.SCcommerce.com

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E. & J. Gallo Winery’s decision to invest $423 million in Chester County for the company’s first production and distribution facility outside its California home base is a major commitment that also signals opportunity for other new and expanding companies in the I-77 Corridor.

The world’s largest winery and spirits company said the new location will help it better serve East Coast markets while taking advantage of proximity to the Port of Charleston for its growing import and export business. The Gallo project also underlines the importance of logistics and location, a reality that has become abundantly clear in the worldwide supply chain disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Companies large and small are working to respond. One result is the shift for many from a “just in time” philosophy of inventory and production management to a “just in case” posture: keeping critical inventory on hand or nearby instead of relying on timely shipments from distant locations.

E-commerce also has been a huge driver in this change, headlined by Amazon’s expansion of a network of massive distribution centers across the country and the surging demand for smaller, last-mile facilities. Then there’s a growing interest in establishing manufacturing sites with smaller footprints than in the past. A good example of that is a 193,000-square-foot spec building that the British firm Arrival will use to produce electric buses in a Rock Hill industrial park.

All this has resulted in unprecedented demand for warehouse and other industrial space. Record-low vacancies and record-high rental rates create opportunity for developers and owners of such properties, both for their own operations and to serve other companies.

One problem in meeting this demand for diverse industrial space is available land. This is not an issue in the I-77 corridor through Richland, Fairfield, Chester, Lancaster and York counties. Developable sites with the right infrastructure – water, sewer, electricity, and access to highways, rail, air transport and seaports – are readily available here. There also may well be an existing building to meet a company’s needs.

With such infrastructure in place, many operations can be up and running relatively quickly. Gallo, for instance, announced its Chester County plans last June and plans to complete the first phase by this October. That’s from the ground up.

We look forward to working with new and existing partners on leveraging your own opportunities through 2022 and beyond.

[CHESTER COUNTY, S.C., January 13, 2022] – The E. & J. Gallo project in Chester County, which is of regional significance to the entire Catawba region, was recently recognized by two national publications. 

Trade & Industry Development awarded the project a CiCi Award and Business Facilities honored the project with a Deal of the Year award.

The coveted Corporate Investment and Community Impact (CiCi) Awards recognized the E. & J. Gallo Winery project as one of fourteen “Community Impact” CiCi award winners.  Details on all of the 2022 CiCi Awards and Community Impact winners can be found here.

In addition, Business Facilities awarded the E. & J. Gallo Winery project as the 2021 Deal of the Year: Rural winner.  This project was one of twenty-one projects nationally to be honored with this recognition. Details of the Deal of the Year can be found here.

“This is quite an honor, as the E. & J. Gallo project in Chester County went two-for-two,” said Dr. Wylie Frederick, interim supervisor, Chester County. “These awards are recognition and validation for all the hard work that went into this project by the county, Fort Lawn, and the state. This is a project of regional significance, and we are delighted that they selected Chester County.”

E. & J. Gallo Winery announced their intentions in June 2021 to invest $423 million in capital investment and create 496 jobs in Chester County to establish an east coast operation for manufacturing and distribution. This project was one of the largest announcements in the State of South Carolina in 2021. In addition, this announcement was the second largest capital investment project in the state and fourth in terms of job creation.

“I want to thank everyone involved in this project and the community at large. We are extremely proud to receive these awards which recognizes the great collaboration between the state government, Chester County, and the I-77 business alliance that made helped make this facility a reality,” said Rob Donoho, Vice President of Supply Chain, E. & J. Gallo Winery.  “Additionally, by having South Carolina as our eastern home, we can continue to reduce the company’s carbon footprint and improve customer service now and in the future.” 

About Chester County Economic Development

Created by Chester County in 2004, the mission of Chester County Economic Development (CCED) is to create an environment that supports existing industry expansion, encourages new industry investments, fosters entrepreneurialism, and welcomes visitation by others—all of which support the provision of public services and otherwise improves each citizen’s prosperity and overall quality of life. Over the past five years, CCED has been responsible for 19 announcements with $884.4 million in new capital investment and the creation of 1,484 jobs.  For more information, visit https://choosechester.com/.

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LANCASTER, S.C. – Chief Buildings, a subsidiary of Chief Industries, Inc. and a premier metal building system manufacturer, today announced plans to establish operations in Lancaster County. The company’s $22.1 million investment will create 102 new jobs over the next five years.

Founded in 1966, Chief Buildings is a nationwide leader in low-rise, non-residential metal building systems. The company’s custom-engineered steel solutions optimize and integrate steel framing, roofing and walls.

Located at 992 Quality Drive in Lancaster, Chief Buildings’ new state-of-the-art Lancaster County operations will expand the company’s footprint in the Southeast and increase service to its authorized builder network.

Operations are expected to be online in October 2022. Individuals interested in learning more about Chief Buildings should visit the company’s website.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to this project. The council also awarded a $200,000 Set-Aside grant to Lancaster County to assist with costs of building improvements.

QUOTES

“Lancaster was the ideal location to expand our operations. The expansion is a logical step in our business growth strategy and helps to ensure we meet the needs of our stakeholders. This project in Lancaster would not be possible without the support from the Lancaster County Department of Economic Development and South Carolina Department of Commerce.”

Chief Industries Chairman of the Board, CEO and President DJ Eihusen

“South Carolina’s talented workforce, ideal location and business-friendly environment continue to recruit top companies. We welcome Chief Buildings to Lancaster County and look forward to their success.”

Gov. Henry McMaster

“South Carolina’s manufacturing industry continues to grow at record pace, and we are excited to welcome Chief Buildings to the roster of companies that make premier products within our borders. Chief Buildings’ $22.1 million investment and creation of 102 new jobs in Lancaster County are cause for celebration, and we look forward to what the future has in store for them.”

Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Chief Buildings will be an exceptional addition to Lancaster County’s manufacturing community. Since our initial meeting with Chief Industries’ CEO DJ Eihusen and his team in September, we realized just how special of a company we were recruiting and committed to securing the project. This third-generation, family-owned business is not only a leader in their industry, but in the communities in which they operate. Lancaster County couldn’t be more appreciative of their decision to bring these outstanding manufacturing jobs here, and we look forward to being a partner with them as they grow their operation here over the coming years.”

Lancaster County Department of Economic Development Executive Director James Gilbert

“We are thrilled that Chief Buildings has selected Lancaster County for their new facility! Chief Buildings’ investment in the I-77 region, after an extensive, multi-state site selection process, sends a clear message that this is an ideal location to do business, especially for small and midsized manufacturers. Welcome to South Carolina!”

-SC I-77 Alliance President and CEO Steven Pearce

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Chief Buildings is establishing operations in Lancaster County.
• The company’s $22.1 million investment will create 102 new jobs over the next five years.
• Chief Buildings is a nationwide leader in low-rise, non-residential metal building systems.
• Located at 992 Quality Drive in Lancaster, S.C.
• Individuals interested in learning more about Chief Buildings should visit the company’s website.

About S.C. Department of Commerce

As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. S.C. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Samsung, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. S.C. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. With a strong international footprint, the Palmetto State has consistently been among the top in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign direct investment on a per capita basis – recognized by multiple economic development publications for its pro-business climate. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Alex Clark, CMP
Director of Marketing & Communications
South Carolina Department of Commerce
(803) 737-1998
aclark@sccommerce.com
www.SCcommerce.com

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