eGroup, a leading provider of innovative business information technology (IT) services, today announced plans to expand its corporate headquarters in Charleston County by building a new 18,000-square-foot facility. The $6.3 million investment is creating 35 jobs.

eGroup provides critical IT services to more than 300 clients across 31 states in the healthcare, financial services, advanced logistics, software development, public safety, first responder and public government sectors. For nearly 20 years, eGroup has delivered the skillsets and expertise to help organizations transform their businesses through a multi-step services methodology that results in high-impact hybrid cloud solutions to improve efficiencies.

Along with its existing headquarters located at 482 Wando Park Boulevard in Charleston County, the new facility will allow eGroup to create a space to further grow its professional and managed services teams.

Construction on the new facility is expected to be completed in fall 2020. Those interested in joining the eGroup team can visit https://www.egroup-us.com/latest/#careers.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to the project.

“From our Charleston County-based campus, eGroup will be providing the IT solutions required by the world’s leading organizations to fulfill their digital transformation and hybrid cloud journeys. Charleston County offers the right blend of business advantages and quality of life for our people, and for close to 20 years, eGroup has been proud to be a leader and contributor within our community. As we’ve grown together over the years, both eGroup and Charleston County have emerged as tech destinations for the 21st century. We like where we’re headed, we’re proud of our shared heritage and we’re committed to do our part in continuing to create that future success!” –eGroup CEO Mike Carter

“South Carolina is on the cutting edge of the technology industry, and with companies like eGroup investing and growing in our state, that trend will only continue. I congratulate this innovative company and wish them continued success.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“We congratulate eGroup on this latest expansion, which adds to the ongoing success they’ve experienced in South Carolina. This innovative company has been a longtime partner of Team South Carolina, and we look forward to seeing them thrive for years to come.”  –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“On behalf of Charleston County, I applaud eGroup on their decision to invest further in our community. As one of our local, homegrown technology companies, we are thrilled to support their growth as they continue to be an IT services industry leader.”-Charleston County Council Chairman Elliott Summey

“eGroup is an example of the success businesses can find in Charleston County, utilizing our region’s brightest talent and benefiting from the established infrastructure for high-tech companies. Our Business Concierge team has built a strong relationship with eGroup, and we proudly congratulate them on their expansion announcement.” –Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

“We are delighted to welcome the expansion of this innovative IT solutions company in Mount Pleasant. eGroup, recognized as one of Inc. Magazine’s Best Workplaces of 2019, brings to our business community national experience in helping organizations of all sizes and all industries keep their data and systems secure and resilient.” – Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie

FIVE FAST FACTS

• eGroup is expanding its Charleston County operations.
• The $6.3 million investment is creating 35 jobs.
• eGroup is a leading provider of innovative business IT services.
• eGroup is located at 482 Wando Park Boulevard in Charleston County.
• Those interested in joining the eGroup team can visit https://www.egroup-us.com/latest/#careers.

High Wire Distilling Co., which produces premium, handcrafted small batch spirits with an agricultural focus, today announced plans to expand its operations in Charleston County. The $3 million investment will create 45 jobs.

The first distillery in downtown Charleston since Prohibition, High Wire Distilling Co. is dedicated to producing high-quality spirits such as gin, whiskey, amaro and small batch fruit brandies using a culinary approach. Located at 311 Huger Street, High Wire Distilling Co.’s new facility will allow the company to expand production capacity and grow its whiskey program. The new facility will also include a larger tasting room that will educate visitors about spirits, local agriculture and immerse them in the distilling process.

High Wire Distilling Co. is committed to using locally-sourced products and partners with area farms. The company currently uses around 80% of Certified South Carolina Grown grain and fruit in its spirits including locally renowned Jimmy Red corn.

Individuals looking to join the High Wire Distilling Company team can visit http://highwiredistilling.squarespace.com/jobs.

“We are thrilled to announce that High Wire Distilling Co. will be moving to a new downtown home in early 2020 just around the corner from our current distillery and tasting room. Our company has seen much success in the past few years, and we are quickly outgrowing our original home. We can’t wait to welcome visitors to our new Tasting Room and offer behind the scenes glimpses of our expanded production facility and barrel aging warehouse. The city of Charleston has been an incredibly supportive and vibrant catalyst for the growth of our company, and we look forward to being an integral part of this community for many years to come.” –High Wire Distilling Co. Founder Ann Marshall

“Time and time again, South Carolina has shown it is one of the best places in the world to do business. This expansion announcement by High Wire Distilling Co. is further proof of our pro-business environment, and we’re excited to see what this locally-grown company has in store for the future.” –Gov. Henry McMaster 

“South Carolina has consistently shown that it is the right place for companies to do business, and this is especially evident in our growing distilling sector. We congratulate High Wire Distilling Co.’s expansion in Charleston County, and we look forward to seeing them thrive for years to come.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt 

“I applaud High Wire Distilling Co. for their commitment to using Certified South Carolina products. This further investment supports South Carolina’s agribusiness industry and helps ensure a strong future for S.C. farmers.” –Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers 

“High Wire Distilling Co.’s welcomed expansion will offer a greater space to showcase their award-winning products. The local craft spirits industry continues to burgeon and we commend High Wire Distilling for choosing Charleston County to grow their business.” – Charleston County Council Chair Elliott Summey

“High Wire Distilling Co. has enjoyed remarkable success as a member of Charleston’s business community over the past few years, and I know that this trend will continue in their new and improved facility. Their commitment to sourcing local ingredients has surely contributed to their growth and success, and I am thrilled that this transition will allow them to continue that practice on a much larger scale.” –Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg

FIVE FAST FACTS

• High Wire Distilling Co. is expanding its Charleston County operations
• The $3 million investment is creating 45 jobs.
• High Wire Distilling Co. produces premium, handcrafted small batch spirits.
• Located at 311 Huger Street, the new facility will allow the company to expand production capacity and grow its whiskey program.
• Individuals looking to join the High Wire Distilling Co. team can visit http://highwiredistilling.squarespace.com/jobs.

Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab, a local, craft brewing operation, is locating its new production operations in Charleston County. The company’s $1.1 million investment is projected to create 16 new jobs.

Located at 2200 Heriot Street in Charleston, S.C., production operations are projected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2019. The company will be producing a wide variety of craft beer and constructing a new taproom.

In addition, Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab will build a commercial kitchen on-site to offer unique food and craft beer pairings. To complement those efforts, the company is actively working on collaboration plans with other breweries, as well as other partnerships to be able to showcase South Carolina-sourced ingredients.

Hiring is expected to begin in the coming weeks, with full staffing in the next six months. Individuals interested in applying for jobs at Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab can email info@thebrewlab.net.

“It is the goal of Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab to provide high-quality, unique beer and other food and drink options to customers who seek a relaxing and inviting environment.” – Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab Partner Joe Evans

“Announcements like this one are further proof that our pro-business climate is paying off. We’re happy to have Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab join the Team South Carolina business community.” –Gov. Henry McMaster 

“South Carolina has shown itself to be a place where industries and companies of all types can thrive, and today’s announcement is further proof of that. I congratulate Charleston County on another great win, and I look forward to seeing the difference this new investment makes in the community.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt 

“We are so pleased to welcome Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab to our community and look forward to its continued growth and success. This was a seamless team effort, and the region’s business-friendly climate made all the difference. “–Charleston County Council Chairman Elliott Summey

“On behalf of our citizens, I’d like to welcome Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab to Charleston and wish them the best of luck with their production operations in this new location. I am confident that they will continue to find success as members of our local business community.” –Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg

“Congratulations to Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab on their announcement to place roots in Charleston County. Our community has a passion for homegrown products, and we are excited to see what the future has in store for our burgeoning craft brewing industry. – Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab is locating new operations in Charleston County.
• $1.1 million investment to create 16 new jobs.
• Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab is a locally-owned craft brewery headquartered in Charleston, S.C.
• Production operations are projected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2019.
• Individuals interested in applying for jobs at Victor Hoppenstein’s Brewlab can email info@thebrewlab.net.

Announced today at the Paris Air Show, the Charleston region has added a new key aerospace supplier, AHG Fasteners-USA, Inc., which designs, manufactures, and sells fastening systems for the aerospace industry. Ateliers de la Haute Garonne, known as AHG, is a private family-owned business founded more than 104 years ago near Toulouse, France in the heart of the aerospace valley.

The company will open its U.S. business operations in Charleston County in the City of Charleston at Office Evolution, 460 King Street. Led by CEO Bruno Ferrand, it has already begun initial hiring for a sales representative. AHG Fasteners-USA, Inc. will focus on sales, business development and growth, as well as customer support. The decision to locate here was based upon the growth of our region’s aerospace sector; proximity to Boeing, a key customer; our business-friendly environment; available workforce, and the French influences in historic Charleston.

AHG Fasteners-USA is the sixth company to locate here as part of South Carolina Department of Commerce’s and the Charleston Regional Development Alliance’s Landing Pad program, which is designed to support global companies as they enter the U.S. market, often simplifying what could be an overwhelming experience and minimizing risks through the process.

“The availability of skilled workforce and proximity to Boeing were important factors in our decision to select this strategic location. Not only is Charleston ideally suited as a distribution hub for both domestic and overseas customers, the business-friendly climate, the support from the regional economic development authorities and other partners have been extremely welcoming. AHG is very happy to have a U.S. home in Charleston.”  – Francoise Montsarrat, AHG Executive Vice President

“We’ve been talking with AHG for some time about the competitive advantages the Charleston region offers. We welcome them to our community and are pleased the region’s available talent and business-friendly climate made all the difference.” – Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board Chair Robert Pratt

“We are excited to see Charleston County’s aerospace industry continues to spur investment and job creation. Our unmatched logistics capabilities and skilled workforce have propelled our aerospace-related companies to exceptional heights. We are grateful for AHG Fasteners-USA’s announcement and welcome them to our community.”                   – Charleston County Council Chairman Elliott Summey

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LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc., a leading manufacturer of precision medical devices and components, today announced plans to open a new product division in Charleston County. The company is bringing approximately $5 million in capital investment and creating more than 30 jobs over the next five years.

Headquartered in Billerica, Mass., LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc. has been making medical instruments for more than 30 years. Whether it’s surgical tools, spinal implants, sports medicine applications or orthopedic reconstruction, LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc. is committed to staying on the cutting edge of the latest technologies.

LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc. will be located at 1750 Signal Point Road, Unit 3 in the James island Business Park. The company is installing machinery and equipment necessary to start production and is slated to begin operations by September 1, 2019.

For more information on employment opportunities, visit http://labmedical.com/careers/.

“LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc. is experiencing rapid growth and is thrilled to be launching operations in Charleston, S.C. We are impressed with the skilled workforce and look forward to creating new jobs and bringing investment to the area.” – LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc. President Leon Bester

“We are proud to welcome LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc. to South Carolina. The Palmetto State’s pro-business environment and skilled workforce make it a perfect fit for the company. Congratulations on this exciting announcement, and we look forward to what the future has in store for LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc.” –Gov. Henry McMaster

“We continue to see manufacturers launching new operations across the state and are pleased to welcome LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc. to the business community. I look forward to supporting the company as they establish and grow operations in our state.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc.’s announcement shows the community’s commitment and ability to compete in the life sciences sector and tap into this talent pipeline. Charleston County will look forward to partnering with LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc. well into the future.” –Charleston County Council Chairman Elliott Summey

“The city of Charleston is happy to welcome LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc.. As a leader in medical instruments manufacturing, they will be a great addition to our strong and growing life sciences sector.” –Charleston Mayor John J. Tecklenburg 

“LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc.’s decision to locate here is a testament to the Charleston region’s ability to attract global medical device companies. We offer the talent they need to succeed, an environment supportive of innovation and a ready in-state customer base. We look forward to their continued success.”  – Charleston Regional Development Alliance Chairman Robert Pratt

FIVE FAST FACTS

• LAB Medical Manufacturing, Inc. is launching a new manufacturing facility in Charleston, S.C.
• $5 million investment to create more than 30 jobs.
• The company has been making medical products for more than 30 years.
• Lab Medical Manufacturing, Inc. is one of the fastest growing medical device manufacturers.
• Located at 1750 Signal Point Road, Unit 3 in the James Island Business Park, and operations are slated to begin by September 1, 2019.

NexGen Containers & Shelters, a specialty manufacturer of ISO containers and shelters for both commercial and defense applications, invested $100,000 in its new 25,000 square foot manufacturing facility located at 7251 Cross Park Drive in North Charleston.

NexGen’s products include dry and refrigerated ISO containers as well as expandable containers of various sizes and configurations. NexGen also builds various modular shelters. NexGen’s Personnel Transport Module (PTM) Shelter for the Navy hovercraft fleet is a flat-pack modular shelter that can handle extreme loads and harsh environments. The PTM Shelter is about 900 square feet, can accommodate up to 180 people and is equipped with ventilation, lights, and seats.

Beginning with five employees in 2016, NexGen Containers and Shelters has more than doubled its workforce and is hiring quality management, production technicians and other positions. To learn more about NexGen Containers & Shelters and view open positions, please visit NexGenContainer.com.

Company Contact:

Matt West

SMI Marketing

2851 Industrial Avenue

843-509-4829

matt.west@smicharleston.com

QUOTES

“We are very happy and thankful for the support we have received from both Charleston County and the State of South Carolina. We are looking forward to continue to expand our business and create new jobs.” –NexGen President Rob Banerjee

“Charleston County is fortunate to have NexGen Containers & Shelters join the ranks of our growing innovative ecosystem. Our strong workforce, culture, and key connections to the defense industry continues to provide advantages for NexGen to excel, and we look forward to supporting the company in its endeavors for years to come.”  – Charleston County Council Chairman Elliott Summey

“Providing the right business environment for companies to flourish is key in facilitating the growth and success of our region’s economy.  We welcome the investment from NexGen and the employment opportunities provided to our community.” –North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“The announcement of NexGen Containers & Shelters demonstrates our investment in supporting and fostering growth within our existing businesses. Our Business Concierge team was able to expeditiously support NexGen’s needs, helping to facilitate this exciting expansion for the City of North Charleston.” –Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• NexGen Containers & Shelters is a specialty manufacturer of ISO containers and shelters for both commercial and defense applications.
• The company is expanding into a new manufacturing facility in Charleston County.
• The company has doubled its workforce since 2016.
• Invested $100,000 in 25,000 square foot manufacturing facility.
• Hiring for the new positions is underway, and interested applicants should visit NexGenContainer.com for more information.

Charleston Distilling, an independent, small-batch producer of handcrafted spirits, today announced a $4.2 million investment in its Charleston County operations. The expansion is projected to create an additional 29 jobs.

Located at 3548 Meeks Farm Road in Charleston, S.C., the company’s new facility is expected to be operational by July 2019 and will feature a 45-foot-high still to increase its production capacity. For more information on the company, visit www.charlestondistilling.com.

“We are excited to finally fire up our new equipment after waiting more than two years for it to be built! With a large tasting room and outside area, the Johns Island location will be a perfect spot for locals to come taste what we can do, and experience everything we have to offer.” –Charleston Distilling Owner Stephen Heilman

“Across South Carolina, businesses of all types are thriving, and today’s announcement by Charleston Distilling is a testament to that. Our state’s craft distilling and brewing industry continues to take off, and I look forward to seeing the impact these new jobs will have in Charleston County.” –Gov. Henry McMaster

“South Carolina has proven itself not only a great place for companies to locate, but also a place where existing companies can grow and thrive. I’m excited to see what the future has in store for an innovative company like Charleston Distilling.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Charleston Distilling’s expansion brings welcomed economic opportunity and jobs to Johns Island. Using the best South Carolina-sourced ingredients, Charleston Distilling is committed to an authentic homegrown experience.” –Charleston County Council Chairman Elliott Summey

“Small and locally-owned businesses are a critical sector of Charleston’s economy and a vital component of our residents’ quality of life. On behalf of the citizens of Charleston, I would like to congratulate Charleston Distilling on their much-anticipated new facility, and welcome them to Johns Island.” –Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg

“Charleston’s water system consistently ranks high for its taste and purity, providing a distinct competitive advantage for our community and Charleston Distilling. We are excited Charleston Distilling decided to grow in Charleston County, and we look forward to their grand opening this summer.” –Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director  Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Charleston Distilling is expanding its operations in Charleston County.
• $4.2 million investment to create 29 new jobs.
• Charleston Distilling is an independent, small-batch producer of handcrafted spirits.
• Located at 3548 Meeks Farm Road in Charleston, S.C., the company’s new facility is expected to be operational by July 2019.
• For more information on Charleston Distilling, visit www.charlestondistilling.com.

Charles River Labs, a leading, full-service drug discovery and early-stage development company, today announced an expansion of its existing Charleston County operations. The company’s $10.9 million investment is projected to create approximately 180 new jobs.

Charles River Labs provides essential products and services to help pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, government agencies and leading academic institutions accelerate research and drug development efforts. Founded in Charleston, S.C. in 1987, the company’s Microbial Solutions business division has experienced significant growth. To accommodate this growth, the company is constructing a new administrative office building at 1023 Wappoo Road in Charleston to allow for increased manufacturing and staffing.

Hiring for the new positions is already underway, and interested applicants should visit the company’s careers page online.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to this project.

“South Carolina is a hub of innovation due to the state’s commitment to research and development and strong partnerships with universities. South Carolina provides an excellent climate and highly-skilled workforce, and we are pleased to expand our presence here.” –Charles River Labs Corporate Senior Vice President Foster Jordan

“South Carolina is proud to have cutting-edge companies, like Charles Rivers Labs, operating – and expanding – within our borders. This firm’s success here is a perfect illustration that industries of all types are prospering in South Carolina.” –Gov. Henry McMaster

“Today’s announcement by Charles River Labs is further proof that South Carolina is home to a burgeoning life sciences industry. I look forward to seeing all that this innovative company will achieve as it continues to grow and thrive in the Lowcountry.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Charles River Labs is making a $10.9 million investment in their operations in Charleston County, further demonstrating their commitment to the Lowcountry. Their expansion is exciting for West Ashley and encouraging for the future of life sciences in our region.” –Charleston County Council Chairman Victor Rawl

“The success of Charles River Labs in West Ashley highlights the biomedical industry growth in Charleston. We are proud that they’ve chosen to continue to invest in our community.” –Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg

“Our department’s longstanding relationship with Charles River Labs has been fruitful as we celebrate another expansion at their West Ashley facility and the addition of 180 new jobs to Charleston County. We will continue to support their growth through our Business Concierge program.” –Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Charles River Labs is expanding its Charleston County operations.
• $10.9 million investment to create approximately 180 new jobs.
• Charles River Labs provides essential products and services to help pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, government agencies and academic institutions.
• Located at 1023 Wappoo Road in Charleston, S.C., the company is constructing a new administrative office building to allow for increased manufacturing and staffing.
• Hiring for the new positions is already underway, and interested applicants should visit the company’s careers page online.

The Charleston region has added a new key player in life sciences, Nanobébé, which has engineered revolutionary new designs for infant feeding systems. Since launching earlier this year, the company has won multiple industry awards. Nanobébé’s product line, including the flagship Breastmilk Bottle, is available at large scale retail chains: buybuy BABY, Target, Bed Bath & Beyond (online), Amazon, and in early 2019 at Walmart, along with hundreds of retail chains and independent stores around the world.

The company opened its U.S. operations in Charleston County in the City of Charleston last week and has already begun initial hiring. The company’s R&D and manufacturing is based in Tel Aviv, Israel, while the U.S. operation will focus on sales, business development and growth, as well as customer support. The decision to locate here was a direct result of the South Carolina-Israel Collaboration, a major initiative of the state’s research universities, industries, economic development agencies, and the Israeli government. Its mission is to stimulate business and research partnerships between companies and universities in South Carolina and Israel as a way to generate economic development, jobs, and investments to the benefit of all.

Nanobébé is the fifth company to locate here as part of South Carolina Department of Commerce’s and the Charleston Regional Development Alliance’s Landing Pad program, which is designed to support global companies as they enter the U.S. market, often simplifying what could be an overwhelming experience and minimizing risks through the process.

“The availability of skilled workforce, proximity to the Port of Charleston and key customers were important factors in our decision to select this strategic location. Not only is Charleston ideally suited as a distribution hub for both domestic and overseas customers, it offers a strong pipeline of available skilled workers in the health care and business development arenas. The business-friendly climate and the support from the regional economic development authorities, medical professionals at Roper St. Francis and MUSC, and The InterTech Group have been extremely welcoming. We are excited to be here and look forward to continuing both nationwide and global outreach from Charleston.” – Nanobébé Co-Founders Ayal Lanternari & Asaf Kehat

Although Nanobébé started with its award-winning baby bottle, the company has quickly expanded to offer an entire ecosystem of baby care products including bottles, breast milk storage bags for the fridge and freezer, a microwave steam sterilizer, drying rack, pacifiers warming bowl and gift sets. For more information on Nanobébé’s entrepreneurship story, check out its recent CNN profile.

“With a footprint of more than 400 firms in South Carolina, the life sciences industry has become a major driver of our economy. We’re excited to welcome Nanobébé to the South Carolina business community and wish them success as they blaze a trail in the Lowcountry.” – Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Nanobébé’s announcement shows the community’s commitment and ability to compete in the life sciences sector and tap into this talent pipeline. We welcome Nanobébé to Charleston County and look forward to their continued growth and success.” – Charleston County Council Chairman Vic Rawl

“I am honored to welcome Nanobébé to the City of Charleston. We are committed to fostering innovation in the Charleston area, and I look forward to Nanobébé’s future growth and development.” – Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg

“We’ve been talking with Nanobébé for some time about the competitive advantages the Charleston region offers, and we are so pleased to welcome to our community and look forward to the company’s continued growth and success. This was a seamless team effort, and the region’s available talent and business-friendly climate made all the difference.” – Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board Chair Robert Pratt

“We are thrilled the Nanobébé team selected Charleston as the site of its U.S. headquarters. The company’s choice to locate here is a direct result of and a testament to the connection created by the South-Carolina Israel Collaboration and the partnerships forged through the Global Alliance for South Carolina. I am pleased to have met the Nanobébé founders on an SC-Israel delegation trip back in 2014. As a result of that meeting, The InterTech Group made a series of investments, both in their team and in their revolutionary line of infant products. We truly look forward to the company’s continued success and to the building of another great South Carolina brand!”  – The InterTech Group President Jonathan Zucker

British Airways, a full-service global airline, today announced plans for new, non-stop air service between London’s Heathrow Airport and the Charleston International Airport. The twice-weekly flight, slated to start in April 2019, marks the first direct trans-Atlantic flight from the state of South Carolina.

Operating on Thursdays and Sundays, outbound flights will depart from Charleston at 10:50 p.m. and arrive in London the next morning at 11:50 a.m. Return flights will leave London at 5:20 p.m. and arrive in Charleston at 9:20 p.m.

Officials estimate the economic impact generated by new job creation and activity associated with the new flights could exceed $20 million annually in tourism. From an industry recruitment perspective, South Carolina already provides excellent access to major business points all over the country. Now, with these new flights, the state will offer connectivity to Western Europe, enhancing the marketability of South Carolina as a top destination for international business.

In a unique nod to South Carolina’s local manufacturing community, British Airways will utilize a North Charleston-built Boeing Dreamliner 787-8 for the new air service.

The S.C. Department of Commerce has committed approximately $1.3 million for the air service’s first season to assist with the costs of the project.

“I am really delighted that British Airways will be offering this special summer service between Charleston and London. Both cities have rich histories and great culture and we look forward to welcoming customers onboard soon.” – British Airways Senior Vice President for North America Simon Brooks

“The significance of connecting the Charleston region and the state of South Carolina to London and Western Europe via this flight cannot be overstated. This is the power of collaborative economic development, and this achievement will advance our role in global commerce and elevate our profile among both business and leisure travelers.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“This is ultimately a game-changer in that the connectivity our very first international passenger flight will offer the Lowcountry region and South Carolina to Western Europe makes the state a more attractive destination to companies that are looking to locate headquarters facilities or other office operations. These flights will make South Carolina an even more viable candidate for economic development, giving us additional tools to compete in the global economy.” -Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Air service has been a major part of our strategic efforts throughout the last decade. We’ve enjoyed tremendous growth with our exceptional domestic air carriers over the last decade. All along, we’ve known this region needs direct service to Europe to support our growing number of business and leisure passengers. London and the United Kingdom have consistently been at the top of our list of preferred international destinations.” -Charleston County Aviation Authority CEO Paul Campbell

“The British Airways announcement is monumental for the Palmetto State. This will be great for travelers and will serve as a catalyst for new economic development opportunities as international companies look at where to locate. South Carolina’s role in the global economy continues to grow and having non-stop service from Charleston to London is a big win for the state.” –S.C. Chamber President and CEO Ted Pitts

FIVE FAST FACTS

• British Airways will operate non-stop air service between London’s Heathrow Airport and the Charleston International Airport.
• This marks the first direct trans-Atlantic air service from the state of South Carolina.
• The twice-weekly flight will operate on Thursdays and Sundays beginning in April 2019.
• British Airways will utilize a South Carolina-built Boeing Dreamliner 787-8 for the new air service.
• Officials estimate the economic impact generated by new job creation and activity associated with the new flights could exceed $20 million annually in tourism.