Charleston County Economic Development will host a multi-employer hiring event as part of the Career Opportunity Center at the North Charleston Business Expo from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at the Charleston Area Convention Center at 5000 Coliseum Drive in North Charleston.

The event will feature representatives from Charleston County Government, Cummins Turbo Technologies, Cintas, Metal Trades, SHL Medical, TELUS International, Venture Aerobearings and workforce partners SC Works Trident and readySC.

The expo is free to attend and open to the public. “We have proudly supported the Career Opportunity Center for five years to strengthen the connection between businesses and job seekers,” stated Charleston County Economic Development Senior Director Ashley Richardson. “We invite all job seekers to join us at the North Charleston Business Expo on May 23, where representatives from renowned companies and esteemed organizations gather to connect with talented individuals.”

About Charleston County Economic Development

For three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

In keeping with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), those needing assistance should contact Charleston County at (843) 202-6917 during regular business hours.

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Charleston County Economic Development (CCED) released its inaugural economic impact study revealing its efforts contribute $18 billion annually to the Charleston County economy, representing nearly 25% of the county’s GDP. Providing data on jobs, capital investment and economic output, this analysis illustrates a comprehensive assessment of CCED’s total economic impact on the county during its three decades of operation.

CCED was formed in 1993 in response to the Naval Base closure and has been instrumental in fostering a diverse business community by attracting, retaining, and growing major industries within the advanced manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, logistics, IT, defense, and life sciences clusters. CCED has worked directly with companies that have collectively facilitated over 39,000 direct jobs and $6.9 billion in capital investment. The study – conducted by Dr. Joseph C. Von Nessen, Research Economist at the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business – summarizes how the growth of the county is observed through consistent high employment gains, wage gains, population gains, and gains in the number of business establishments.

“Charleston County represents a major economic success story for the state of South Carolina in which CCED has played an integral part,” stated Dr. Von Nesson. “A key ingredient of the county’s success has been CCED’s ability to help attract a diverse industry base, which leads to higher and more consistent rates of long-run economic growth.”

The study’s findings highlight the importance of Charleston County to the state’s economy and serve as a reminder of the county’s strong potential for growth and development. Additional key findings of the study include:

• The 72,018 jobs that have been generated through CCED-affiliated activities pay an average wage of $82,874.
• 43% wage premium for jobs generated either directly or indirectly through CCED-affiliated business activities in Charleston County compared to the average job in Charleston County.
• 72% of Charleston County residents work within the county.
• Manufacturing represents approximately 32% of all CCED-supported companies.
• The largest contributor to the County’s employment gains over the past decade has been the Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services industry sector.

“Looking back to 1993 and where we stand in 2023, I am filled with immense pride,” said Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes. “Despite the Naval Base closure setback, we persevered and collaborated closely with the Charleston business community over the past thirty years, creating nearly 40,000 new jobs. Through the department’s proactive initiatives and cultivating a welcoming business climate, we have fostered a vibrant and multifaceted economy that has significantly enhanced the well-being of Charleston County’s residents.”

To view the “Economic Impact of CCED: Driving 30 Years of Growth and Expansion in Charleston County” or to learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

About Charleston County Economic Development
For three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

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SC Works Trident will host a multi-employer hiring event in partnership with Charleston County Economic Development from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, May 11, 2023, at the SC Works Charleston facility at 1930 Hanahan Road in North Charleston.

The event will feature representatives from Boeing South Carolina, Charleston County Government, Charleston Water System, Cintas, Key Logistics Solutions, readySC, Roper St. Francis Healthcare, SHL Medical, and T-Mobile.

The hiring event is free to attend and open to the public.

“Partnering on a job fair is essential to strengthen the connection between businesses and job seekers,” said Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes. “As we celebrate National Economic Development Week, we are proud to work alongside SC Works Trident to host a multi-employer hiring event to provide opportunities for our community. We encourage all job seekers to attend and meet with representatives from leading companies in Charleston County.”

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FORT WORTH, TEXAS – MAY 8, 2023 – With a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, facility tours, and the roll-out of a large military vehicle, Elbit Systems of America (Elbit America) celebrated its newest facility in North Charleston, South Carolina, with employees, customers, and partners. Located at Crosspoint at Palmetto Commerce Park, the manufacturing facility aims to employ hundreds of people and assemble large vehicular systems for the United States military and allied nations. The facility’s initial endeavors will include the manufacturing of Mission Command Platforms for the U.S. Army‘s Command Post Integrated Infrastructure (CPI2) Program and the Sigma mobile cannon artillery system for the Israel Defense Forces.

“Opening our new, digitally-enabled North Charleston facility is the realization of our company’s wish to continue expanding and investing throughout the country. South Carolina provides the right mix of a talented local workforce, supportive government partners, and suppliers ready to help us provide innovative solutions to the Warfighter,” said Elbit America President and CEO Raanan Horowitz. “There’s much work to do to, but I’m confident in this facility, and in our workforce. Elbit America is proud to be in South Carolina.”

The top-of-the-line facility has taken roughly two years to construct, while recruitment for site leadership and assemblers has been underway for nearly a year. New recruits say they are attracted by the benefits the new facility offers – a brand new, climate-controlled environment, state-of-the-art equipment, the company’s flexible schedule, and Elbit America’s enduring mission to support our nation’s military and allies. Nearly half of the facility’s existing workforce are Veterans, and they’re signing-on with excitement to be a part of a new company, fresh to South Carolina.

“I was the first local hire for this facility,” said Chris Fortner, Supply Chain Manager for Elbit America’s new South Carolina facility. “I thought Elbit America had an innovative product line, and a strong future. I’m proud to be part of the company’s South Carolina-based workforce.”

Elbit America Vice President of Strategy & Growth Scott Baum said, “We want to thank the community of North Charleston, South Carolina for their help establishing this facility. What you see today is agile manufacturing that is expanding critically needed capacity, and all of this is due to a resilient network of local suppliers.”

Since before construction began at the company’s new site, it was predicted the facility would spur hundreds of millions of dollars in economic impact to the state, adding to the nation’s industrial base.

The City of North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey said, “As Elbit Systems of America opens its new facility in North Charleston, we are thrilled to welcome this important addition to our community. This represents a milestone in our ongoing efforts to attract and retain innovative companies that will help drive economic growth and create high-quality jobs for our residents. We look forward to building a strong and lasting relationship with Elbit America and to the many positive contributions they will undoubtedly make to our city’s future.”

Elbit Systems of America is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. The company employs 3,500 individuals across various sites in the country. In 2023, the company celebrates its 30^th anniversary.

ADDITIONAL QUOTES FROM ELBIT AMERICA PARTNERS:

“I’m pleased Elbit America has chosen North Charleston, South Carolina as the new home for their Ground Combat Vehicle Center of Excellence. In addition to providing crucial support for the U.S. Military, the Center of Excellence will bring good-paying manufacturing jobs to the 6th Congressional District and inject millions of dollars into our local economy.”

– Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC – 06)

“Elbit America’s expansion of their manufacturing capabilities with the construction of a new Ground Combat Vehicle Assembly and Integration Center of Excellence represents a significant investment in our region. This new facility will not only create high-quality jobs for our community but will also provide lasting economic benefits. We are confident Elbit America’s commitment to building the best for the best will result in cutting-edge defense systems for America and our allies, and there’s no better place for this work to be done than right here in South Carolina.”

– U.S. Representative Nancy Mace (SC – 01)

“Charleston County Economic Development is thrilled to welcome Elbit America to our community and to celebrate the grand opening of their new facility in North Charleston.  We were privileged to work closely with the company’s great team through site location, business costs analysis, permitting, workforce and infrastructure issues as they built a solid foundation toward establishing this new facility. This cutting-edge advanced manufacturing facility brings high-quality jobs to the people of the Charleston region, as well as bolstering America’s national security. We earnestly look forward to continuing our strong relationship with the Elbit America team.”

– Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

“With the opening of Elbit Systems of America’s new facility in North Charleston, we are excited for the jobs and economic impact they bring. The Charleston Metro Chamber looks forward to building a strong partnership with Elbit America in our joint pursuit to support our military and advance the Charleston region.”

– President and CEO of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce Bryan Derreberry

“The Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA) is thrilled to welcome Elbit America to the Lowcountry!  We look forward to building a relationship with them that establishes deeper connectivity with our member companies, while fueling continued innovation, growth, and investments in the region.”

– Charleston Defense Contractors Association President Gary Jaffe

“Today’s grand opening brings a huge sense of pride and accomplishment to our region and state, and comes after nearly four years of working hand-in-hand with the Elbit America team on this project.  We are truly grateful that Elbit America chose to plant roots in the Charleston area, and we look forward to collaborating, partnering and supporting their continued success moving forward.”

– Charleston Regional Development Alliance’s Director of Global Business Development at R. Megan Anderson

MORE INFORMATION: https://www.elbitamerica.com.

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Defense Engineering Services (DES), a governmental engineering company, today announced plans to expand its Charleston County operations. The company’s $2.5 million investment will create 45 new jobs.

Founded in 2013, DES is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business that provides ​high value engineering and manufacturing services for the aerospace and defense industry. The company works to solve problems on high-performance systems involving mechanical and electrical engineering, testing and evaluation, design and systems engineering, and survivability engineering. DES services the U.S. Department of Defense through vehicle systems integration, automotive design, survivability solutions, reverse engineering and obsolescence issues, while also serving the U.S. Army with medical training systems and innovative armor.

Located at 6920 Weber Blvd., Suite 300 in North Charleston, DES’ new facility will accommodate manufacturing space for large scale projects and add manufacturing capabilities to its prototype and low-rate initial production (LRIP) shop. The approximately 53,000-square-foot facility will allow the company to continue offering quality solutions guided by technical excellence through mechanical and electrical engineering, research and development, analysis, test support, prototyping and LRIP.

The expansion will be complete in May 2023, and operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the DES team should visit the company’s careers page.

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

“DES is excited to expand our engineering and prototype manufacturing operations in Charleston County. Operations have grown year over year for a decade. This growth can be attributed to the business-friendly environment and technically capable workforce of South Carolina and Charleston County.”

– Defense Engineering Services Managing Principals Bob Cole and Greg Gordon

“We are fully committed to supporting our existing businesses, and we are thrilled to see DES’ announcement that will bring more than 45 jobs to Charleston County. We look forward to further strengthening our long-standing partnership with them in the years to come.”
–Gov. Henry McMaster

“Announcements like this showcase the valued companies that support our aerospace and defense industry. Congratulations to DES on its Charleston County expansion, and we look forward to the company’s continued growth within our borders.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Charleston County is fortunate to have DES as part of our growing innovative ecosystem. Our strong workforce and key industry partners continue to provide the perfect environment for DES to prosper.

-Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III

 “We are thrilled to welcome the expansion of Defense Engineering Services in North Charleston. This investment brings new job opportunities to our community and reinforces our strong commitment to supporting service-disabled, veteran-owned small businesses. With its expertise in engineering and manufacturing services for the aerospace and defense industry, DES is an important partner in driving innovation and growth in this critical sector. I look forward to seeing their continued success and the positive impact they will have on our region.”

-North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“DES has been a valuable partner to our community, and their continued investment is a testament to the company’s commitment to growth and success. We congratulate DES on their expansion and look forward to working with them as they continue to drive innovation and technical excellence in our community.”

-Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes 

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Defense Engineering Services (DES) is expanding its Charleston County operations.
• The company’s $2.5 million investment will create 45 new jobs.
• DES is a governmental engineering company.
• Located at 6920 Weber Blvd., Suite 300 in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the DES team should visit the company’s careers page.

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Neal Brothers Charleston, Inc. (Neal Brothers), a global logistics leader, today announced plans to expand its existing Charleston County operations. The company’s $9.48 million investment will create 10 new jobs in the first year.

Originally established in England in 1916, Neal Brothers is a world leader in export packing, storage, freight and distribution services, and project shipping management. For over 30 years, Neal Brothers’ main North American office has successfully operated in North Charleston. As an internationally recognized name in the export packing industry, Neal Brothers is an ethics-driven organization combining customer satisfaction values with cost-efficient technologies.

Neal Brothers plans to expand its existing location by building a state-of-the-art, 100,000-square-foot facility located at 4229 Domino Ave. in North Charleston. The expansion will further increase the company’s shipping operations to serve the region’s waterfront and logistics community.

Operations are already online, and individuals interested in joining the Neal Brothers’ team should visit the company’s careers page.

“Neal Brothers is dedicated to growing our footprint while promoting a family atmosphere and without losing the ability to have a personal connection with our customers.” -Neal Brothers Owner David K. Neal

“Neal Brothers is special because of our customers and our people. With this new building we can grow our team and better serve our customers while continuing to invest in the place we call home – Charleston County in South Carolina.” -Neal Brothers Charleston, Inc. Chief Executive Officer Darryl Ray Griffin Sr.

“We are pleased to see Neal Brothers continue to expand in South Carolina. Today’s announcement proves once again that we have everything in place to support global logistics companies and provide them the resources needed to thrive.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“This strategic decision by Neal Brothers to expand in Charleston County enhances the community’s logistics network and reinforces South Carolina as a first-class business location. We look forward to seeing how this expansion will enhance the export packaging industry.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Neal Brothers’ announcement is another signal to the global business community that Charleston County is positioned to move product efficiently and cost-effectively. We’re excited to have a longtime business community member grow their operations and invest further in Charleston County.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III

“As we continue to foster a business-friendly environment in North Charleston, we are thrilled to welcome the expansion of Neal Brothers Inc. This growth not only brings new job opportunities to our community, but also bolsters our local economy and underscores our commitment to supporting the growth and success of businesses in our city.” -North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“Congratulations to Neal Brothers Charleston Inc. on their successful expansion. We are thrilled to see such a world-renowned organization continue to choose Charleston County as its home and contribute to our thriving logistics community. We look forward to supporting Neal Brothers as they embark on this new chapter and wish them continued success.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes 

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Neal Brothers Charleston, Inc. (Neal Brothers) is expanding existing operations in Charleston County.
• The company’s $9.48 million investment will create 10 new jobs in the first year.
• Neal Brothers is a global logistics leader.
• Located at 4229 Domino Ave. in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Neal Brothers team should visit the company’s careers page.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

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Interloop, an innovative software company, today announced plans to expand its existing operations in Charleston County. The company’s $100,000 investment will create 32 new jobs over the next five years.

Interloop helps mid-market companies become more data-driven with the implementation of advanced data technology. The company combines a full-stack data platform along with data engineering service expertise to break down data silos, providing automated insights for clients. The company offers a portfolio of services in data strategy, data pipeline management, data modeling, dashboard development, artificial intelligence, and governance and observability.

With current operations at the Charleston Tech Center located at 997 Morrison Drive, Suite 200, Interloop’s expansion will allow the company to increase operations and provide additional training programs. By investing in their knowledge worker training program, Interloop can train and support interested candidates in the data engineering and data science fields.

The expansion is underway. Individuals interested in joining the Interloop team should visit the company’s careers page.

“We are excited about the next phase of Interloop’s growth and are very happy that we are able to do this as a part of the growing Charleston technology ecosystem. Our expanded operations and training programs will help grow the community of data professionals and provide them with a platform to leverage their valuable talents. We believe the mid-market’s focus on data as a mission critical function of their business will continue to grow, and our expansion efforts will put us at the forefront of this wave of transformation.” -Interloop Co-Founder Jordan Berry

“The technology industry is valuable to our state, and companies such as Interloop continue to provide talented workforce and cutting-edge technology. We celebrate Interloop’s decision to expand in Charleston County and create 32 new jobs.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“Today’s announcement is a win for Charleston County’s robust technology community, and reinforces that companies continue to find sustained success in South Carolina. Congratulations to Interloop on this expansion, and we look forward to strengthening our partnership.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Our technology sector continues to impress, and we are pleased to have Interloop connect with like-minded organizations at the Charleston Tech Center. Interloop’s expansion will further propel Charleston County as the tech hub of South Carolina.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III

“Interloop’s expansion as a software company further proves Charleston County fosters a robust technology community. Our talent pool and community support provide the ingredients for entrepreneurs to succeed here.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Interloop is expanding existing operations in Charleston County.
• The company’s $100,000 investment will create 32 new jobs over the next five years.
• Interloop is an innovative software company.
• Located at the Charleston Tech Center at 997 Morrison Drive, Suite 200 in Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Interloop team should visit the company’s careers page.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

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Patten Seed Company, one of the largest turfgrass producers in the Southeast, today announced plans to relocate its corporate headquarters to Charleston County. The company’s $2.2 million investment will create 40 new jobs.

Expanding its South Carolina footprint, Patten Seed Company will relocate its corporate headquarters from Lakeland, Georgia to an existing facility at 22 Westedge Street in Charleston. The new headquarters will centralize the company’s senior management team and create a marketing and technology hub. Additionally, the relocation, which is central to Patten Seed Company’s current Southeast operations, positions the company to take advantage of the area’s robust talent pool as it transitions from an agriculture-centered company to a vertically integrated, industry leader.

Patten Seed Company is a 100-year-old company deploying the same forward-thinking initiatives today that took a small seed store in southern Georgia to the largest turfgrass producer in the Southeast. The company operates one of its largest farming operations in Orangeburg, working with farms and facilities across the southeastern United States to ensure its products are fresh and readily available to landscapers and homeowners. Patten Seed Company also has a new retail location in North Charleston that offers its Super-Sod turfgrass brand and its extensive portfolio of innovative farm products, including two of the company’s fastest growing products, OMRI Listed Soil3 organic compost and Soil3 Veggie Mix.

Operations are expected to be online by the first quarter of 2023. Individuals interested in joining the Patten Seed Company team should visit the company’s careers page.

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

“Charleston County is central to our current footprint throughout the southeastern United States. As we continue to grow, it was important to centralize the senior management team and take advantage of a more robust hiring market and Charleston County fits that need well. Vibrant companies need vibrant cities.” -Patten Seed Company Chief Executive Officer Ben Copeland Jr.

“We are pleased that Patten Seed Company will relocate its headquarters to Charleston County. South Carolina continues to attract innovative companies that expand our agribusiness industry, and Patten Seed Company will add to that roster. We look forward to their continued success in South Carolina.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“It’s great when an agribusiness such as Patten Seed Company decides to plant more roots in South Carolina. We welcome Patten Seed Company to Charleston County’s vibrant business environment and look forward to the company’s success.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Patten Seed Company’s new headquarters operation is a fantastic addition to South Carolina’s thriving agribusiness community. With its rich history and regional reach, Patten Seed Company will contribute jobs, support existing farmers and strengthen our economy.”-South Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers

“With a $2.2 million investment and the creation of 40 new jobs, Patten Seed Company remains a leading player in the turfgrass industry. Patten Seed Company’s forward-thinking initiatives continue to pave the way for success and prosperity, and we welcome them to their new home in Charleston County.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III

“Cheers to Patten Seed Company’s 100-year legacy of forward-thinking initiatives and their exciting new chapter in Charleston County. Here’s to continued growth, innovation, and success in the years to come!” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Patten Seed Company is relocating corporate headquarters to Charleston County and expanding South Carolina footprint.
• The company’s $2.2 million investment will create 40 new jobs.
• Patten Seed Company is one of the largest turfgrass producers in the Southeast.
• Located at 22 Westedge Street in Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Patten Seed Company team should visit the company’s careers page.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

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By: Jay Kramer & Gene Borzendowski

The South Carolina Automotive Summit is one of the highest-impact conferences in the State. Industry leaders visit Downtown Greenville annually to discuss evolving industry trends, innovations, and forecasts. Electrification was the hottest summit topic again in 2023 since EVs are driving the “Next Automotive American Revolution,” with manufacturing, supply chain innovation, sustainability, and raw materials all in the spotlight. While attendees were buzzing with excitement from a rapidly evolving and exciting industry, presenters detailed some of the factors that will be critical to the automotive industry’s success in the years to come.

Manufacture Locally, on a Global Scale
Automotive OEMs continue to make decisions to lessen geopolitical ambiguity by locating facilities near their customers. Manufacturers cite regulations in Europe, conflict in eastern Europe, and uncertainty in China as major reasons for local manufacturing. Using the “manufacture where you sell mindset,” supply chains will continue to follow the OEMs to fulfill local product demand. With heavy regulations across Europe and rising energy prices, the US will continue to see massive investments in automotive manufacturing, especially regarding EVs. Local manufacturing helps OEMs and suppliers eliminate a certain amount of supply chain risk and shipping delays that have plagued manufacturers in recent years.

Race for Raw Materials
Every manufacturer of electric vehicles will increasingly rely on new raw materials: nickel, lithium, cobalt, and copper, all essential in battery cell manufacturing. Demand for rare earth magnets will continue to peak as companies engineer more powerful and efficient electric motors. The companies or suppliers that can efficiently access these raw materials will be positioned for success in EV manufacturing. Some suppliers are even making vertical integration moves to acquire mining operations to keep control of the supply chain. A “Battery Belt” has started to surface in the US, running from Michigan to Georgia, and operations in these states will experience increased reliance on these raw materials. Just outside of Charleston County, Redwood Materials sits strategically at one end of the battery belt and will be positioned to supply a handful of OEMs with the batteries they need for success. China is strategically positioned for success in every aspect of the battery manufacturing process because they have access to mining and processing these materials and experience doing so. American manufacturers quickly identify global mining partners to compete as the EV industry matures for decreased reliance on foreign suppliers.

Sustainability Through Manufacturing Processes, Synthetics, and Material Circularity
Automotive OEMs are targeting fewer emissions from tailpipes and fewer emissions in the manufacturing process as a part of their comprehensive plans for carbon emissions. Almost every presenter touched on the importance of carbon neutrality as it becomes the new gold standard for manufacturing emissions. Automotive interior suppliers cite synthetics’ importance in replacing animal-based materials with high-performance substitutes with identical properties and functionality. Tire manufacturers continue to improve tread patterns and compounds to decrease road resistance and combat the 20% faster wear EVs experience with tires because of their torque. The quest for material circularity continues as material innovations are made inside and outside the vehicles of tomorrow.

Newcomers, Innovation, and Reality
The EV excitement in the automotive industry has driven dozens of new automotive companies toward new vehicle offerings across the globe. Some of the most celebrated exhibitors at CES this year were automotive companies showcasing their EV products, including the Vietnamese-founded company, VinFast. They will test a new model of renting batteries to their customers and change them out as needed to alleviate uncertainty in battery functionality and replacement. Tech companies previously unrelated to the automotive industry, Nvidia, Qualcomm, and Intel, are all surfacing as players in the EV supply chain market with a focus on driver-assisting tech and e-mobility solutions. Considerable innovations in battery efficiency, driver assists, autonomous busses, e-mobility, and dozens of new automobiles are offered as EVs. However, it is critical to understand that with all the innovation, marketing, and attention on EVs, only 10% of vehicles on the road in the US are anticipated to be electric by the year 2030.

While the next decade will reshape the automotive industry, Charleston County and the State of South Carolina are well positioned to support automotive OEMs and suppliers to achieve their EV goals regionally and nationally. With our robust logistics backbone, decades of experience in the automotive industry, and culture of innovation, Charleston County is committed to supporting the success of existing and new automotive companies across the County.

Striped Pig Distillery, LLC (Striped Pig Distillery), a woman-owned and family-operated distillery, today announced plans to expand operations in Charleston County. The company will invest $10 million and create more than 50 new jobs.

Known as Charleston’s first distillery since Prohibition, Striped Pig Distillery specializes in crafting Southern-style spirits including bourbon gin, rum, organic vodka and flavored iterations of each spirit. With a focus on community, the company sources ingredients for its award-winning spirits regionally and works with local organizations to give back to community causes through its Sip & Share program.

Located at 2225 Old School Drive in North Charleston, Striped Pig Distillery’s expansion will add 24,000 square feet to its existing facility to accommodate a new bottling line and event space. The expansion will be complete by summer of 2023.

Individuals interested in joining the Striped Pig Distillery team should visit the company’s contact page.

“Nothing is more important to me than unconditional love and possibility. My children, friends and community family have supported me during the most difficult times to flourish in a challenging male-dominated industry. We are thrilled to expand our manufacturing line here in North Charleston to fulfill the growing regional, national and international demand for our spirits. Proudly, South Carolina is home, but our mission is being felt globally!” -Striped Pig Distillery Chief Executive Officer Pixie Paula Dezzutti

“We are proud to see a homegrown company expand in our state. Congratulations to Striped Pig Distillery on their $10 million investment, and we look forward to seeing how they will advance the distillery industry.” –Gov. Henry McMaster

“Congratulations to Striped Pig Distillery on their Charleston County expansion announcement. We celebrate their continued success, ongoing local investment and job creation as a growing, South Carolina-made business.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Congratulations to Charleston’s first distillery, Striped Pig Distillery, on their expansion. Striped Pig Distillery’s success is ‘proof’ that the beverage industry continues to advance the community’s economy and tourism.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“A thriving craft spirits scene in a community becomes an economic driver, creating jobs, boosting tourism, and attracting professionals and entrepreneurs.  Striped Pig Distillery has led the way for countless other operations within our region, and we are glad to see their expansion within the City of North Charleston.” -North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“Best wishes to Striped Pig Distillery on their success with continued growth and prosperous expansion. We are lucky to have such a dynamic leader in our community and are proud to be the home of another woman-owned business cultivating economic prosperity. The County looks forward to seeing how the spirits keep getting better with age.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

•  Striped Pig Distillery, LLC (Striped Pig Distillery) is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• The company’s $10 million investment will create more than 50 new jobs.
• Striped Pig Distillery is a woman-owned and family-operated distillery.
• Located at 2225 Old School Drive in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Striped Pig Distillery team should visit the company’s contact page.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For almost three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

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