Metal Trades, Inc., a family-owned steel and metal manufacturer, today announced plans to expand its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $14.4 million investment will create 64 new jobs.

Founded in 1962, Metal Trades, Inc. is a heavy steel fabricator that serves the marine industry, specializing in steel and sheet metal fabrication for commercial and government markets. The company’s broad portfolio includes steel processing, fabrication, welding, piping, machining, electrical installation, blasting and painting.

Located at 4194 Highway 165 in Meggett, Metal Trades, Inc.’s expansion includes the construction of a new facility on its campus. The expansion will allow the company to build components and fixtures in-house for the United States Navy. The new building will be located near the company’s 1,000-ton marine railway, accommodating for fabrication of large steel structures and transfers directly to the Intracoastal Waterway. This expansion will also allow the company to expand its capabilities in manufacturing expertise, heavy lift capability and direct barge access.

The expansion is expected to be completed by the second half of 2023. Individuals interested in joining the Metal Trades, Inc. team should visit the company’s careers page.

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

“Metal Trades, Inc. is excited for the positive impact this expansion will have on rural Charleston County as we continue to increase our capacity to support the defense industry as well as our private sector customers.  As one of the few major fabricators located on deep water in the state, this expansion will allow us to expand our tradition of delivering quality built, heavy steel products from the Lowcountry to the rest of the world.” – Metal Trades, Inc. Chairman & Chief Executive Officer R.B. Corbin

“With the expansion of Metal Trades, Inc., South Carolina’s manufacturing industry continues to lead the charge in bringing new jobs and investment to our state. Congratulations, and we look forward to celebrating your success for many years to come.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“South Carolina’s strategic location and infrastructure assets are ideal for companies like Metal Trades, Inc. to find continued success. We appreciate Metal Trades, Inc.’s ongoing commitment and look forward to the positive impact this expansion will have throughout the state.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“It’s always gratifying to see family-owned businesses continue to expand and create opportunities in their community. We congratulate Metal Trades, Inc. on expanding and creating new jobs in the southern part of Charleston County.”  -Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“Metal Trades, Inc. has been an integral part of the Town of Meggett for 60 years. Their hard work and innovation have had a significant economic impact on our community and brought them to the forefront of their industry.  Congratulations to the Corbin Family and all those at Metal Trades on this amazing milestone.” -Meggett Mayor Buster Herrington

“Witnessing a legacy company like Metal Trades, Inc.’s commit to bringing capital investment and jobs to a rural area of Charleston County is rewarding. Metal Trades has been a good community neighbor for six decades and has invested in its people. We congratulate them on this expansion.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes 

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Metal Trades, Inc. is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• The company’s $14.4 million investment will create 64 new jobs.
• Metal Trades, Inc. is a family-owned steel and metal manufacturer.
• Located at 4194 Highway 165 in Meggett, SC.
• Individuals interested in joining the Metal Trades, Inc. team should visit the company’s careers 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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ZELTWANGER LP, an innovative machine technology company, today announced plans to expand its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $12.5 million investment will create 24 new jobs.

Headquartered in Germany, ZELTWANGER LP is a leading manufacturing service provider for highly complex and precise machine parts worldwide. The company assembles and manufactures machine products and serves a wide portfolio of industries including plant engineering, automotive, e-mobility, medical technology, automation technology, the packaging industry and the aerospace industry.

Relocating within the county to 9551 Palmetto Commerce Parkway in North Charleston, ZELTWANGER LP’s new facility will accommodate additional production due to increased demand in the Charleston area.

The expansion is expected to be completed by the first half of 2023. Individuals interested in joining the ZELTWANGER LP team should visit the company’s careers page.

“This expansion demonstrates our long-term commitment to our customers and our investment in the future of this company. We are honored to provide further economic growth and new career opportunities for citizens within the community.” -ZELTWANGER LP President Juergen Goehner

“South Carolina has the ability to attract businesses from all over the world, and this announcement shows further proof of that. Congratulations to ZELTWANGER LP on their expansion in Charleston County.” –Gov. Henry McMaster

“Companies like ZELTWANGER LP are leaders in South Carolina’s advanced manufacturing sector and prove to the world that our state has what it takes to produce cutting-edge products and materials. We appreciate the company’s continued investment and creation of new opportunities within our borders.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“It is with marked excitement that we congratulate ZELTWANGER LP on their announcement to expand their presence in Charleston County. We strive to foster a receptive, business-friendly ecosystem designed for optimal growth opportunities.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“We are grateful for ZELTWANGER LP reinvesting in our city, bringing additional jobs and a sizeable capital investment that will greatly benefit our community.  This commitment tells us that North Charleston continues to be business-friendly with a workforce capable of performing in a highly technical environment.” – North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“For two decades, ZELTWANGER LP has been an integral part of our business community. We appreciate their commitment to Charleston County and congratulate ZELTWANGER LP on their expansion announcement.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• ZELTWANGER LP is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• The company’s $12.5 million investment will create 24 new jobs.
• ZELTWANGER LP is an innovative machine technology company.
• Relocating to 9551 Palmetto Commerce Parkway in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the ZELTWANGER LP team should visit the company’s careers 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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Tri-County STEMersion is a two-week, unique hands-on institute for middle and high school instructors in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester Counties in South Carolina that centers on building collaboration with existing industries to launch STEM into local schools.

The STEMersion Institute provides an opportunity for select teachers to interface with the region’s leading employers to develop high-impact, meaningful, and thought-provoking lessons for their students. Discover the exciting projects and developments between local teachers and industries from STEMersion 2022.

Sweet Grass Vodka, a family-owned spirits and distilling company, today announced plans to establish operations in Charleston County. The company’s $1.7 million investment will create 47 new jobs.

Founded in 2020, Sweet Grass Vodka crafts innovative and high-quality vodka and spirits from South Carolina-grown potatoes. The company is committed to locally sourced ingredients and is known worldwide for its award-winning vodka.

Located at 1640 Meeting Street in Charleston, Sweet Grass Vodka’s new facility will be its first operation in Charleston County and its second location in South Carolina. The Charleston facility will be a bottling plant, offering a tasting room for spirits and small bites.

Operations are expected to be online in October. Individuals interested in joining the Sweet Grass Vodka team should visit the company’s contact page.

“We are enthusiastic about launching our second location in South Carolina in the beautiful upper peninsula of Charleston. We are proud of our quality, locally sourced vodka — and this new facility will showcase Sweet Grass Vodka on a larger scale.” –Sweet Grass Vodka Chief Executive Officer Jarrod Swanger

“Again and again, South Carolina has shown it is one of the best places in the world to do business. This announcement by Sweet Grass Vodka 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. Congratulations to Sweet Grass Vodka on its establishment in Charleston County.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“We congratulate Sweet Grass Vodka on their new operations in Charleston County and applaud their continued growth within our borders. The opportunities with this announcement underscore South Carolina’s burgeoning distilling and craft brewing sector.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are pleased to welcome Sweet Grass Vodka to our community and look forward to its continued growth and success. Using the best of locally sourced ingredients, Sweet Grass Vodka is committed to an authentic homegrown experience.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“We’re excited to celebrate the success of Charleston’s own Sweet Grass Vodka. The new establishment at The Refinery will allow them to grow their operations locally, creating new jobs while investing in our community.” -Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg

“We are in high spirits to witness the growth of Sweet Grass Vodka in Charleston County. The beverage manufacturing scene continues to flourish in this region, and we congratulate Sweet Grass on expanding its roots.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Sweet Grass Vodka is establishing operations in Charleston County.
• The company’s $1.7 million investment will create 47 new jobs.
• Sweet Grass Vodka is a family-owned spirits and distilling company.
• Located at 1640 Meeting Street in Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Sweet Grass Vodka 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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By Warren L. Wise wwise@postandcourier.com

Breeze Airways will launch more nonstop flights between Charleston and the West Coast this fall, bringing its number of destinations across the U.S. from the Lowcountry to 21.

The Utah-based carrier will offer a new transcontinental route to Los Angeles and another flight to Phoenix. The nonstop run to the Arizona capital is a first for Charleston.

The cross-country route to the City of Angels from the Holy City will begin Nov. 4 and run two times a week on Friday and Monday. The route to Phoenix will start Nov. 2 and be offered twice weekly on Wednesday and Saturday.

Introductory one-way fares start at $89 for Phoenix and $99 for Los Angeles for travel by Feb. 14, 2023. The special rate ends at 11:59 p.m. Aug. 16.

Prices, rules, routes and schedules are subject to change. Restrictions and blackout dates may apply.

The new route to Los Angeles will compete with New York City-based JetBlue Airways, which Breeze CEO David Neeleman founded. JetBlue began offering flights to southern California in late 2020. It now offers nonstop flights to LA four times a week.

Breeze already offers nonstop service to another West Coast city: it initiated flights to San Francisco in May.

Charleston airport CEO Elliott Summey called the first nonstop flight to Phoenix “a major milestone” for CHS.

“Service to both Phoenix and Los Angeles from Charleston International Airport has been a key strategic objective … that will allow both business and leisure travelers convenient access to and from some of the most important airport gateways to the world,” Summey said.

Breeze also will offer one-stop/no change of plane “BreezeThru” service from Charleston to Provo, Utah, six times a week and similar daily service between CHS and LAX, both starting Nov 2.

For the Provo flight, on Wednesday and Saturday the plane will land in Phoenix, on Thursday and Sunday the flight will touch down in Las Vegas, and on Friday and Monday the temporary layover will be in Los Angeles.

For the LA “BreezeThru” flight, the daily stopover will be in White Plains, N.Y.

The chair of the Charleston County Aviation Authority pointed to the West Coast additional routes as Breeze’s further investment in the Charleston market.

“Research tells us the Lowcountry is a popular destination for West Coast travelers,” said Helen Hill, also CEO of tourism agency Explore Charleston. “Phoenix has been a focus market for inbound and outbound service for several years, and we’re excited to expand access for passengers traveling to and from California.”

Read more here.

Fares on the new routes start at $39 to $99 one way and are on sale now at flybreeze.com.

B-roll is available here: https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/wdVrjlK9EX

Logos and imagery are available here: link

About Breeze Airways
Breeze Airways, which commenced operations in May 2021, is the nation’s best funded startup airline in history. Breeze provides service between 16 cities across 13 states, growing to 18 cities and 14 states by February 19, 2022. Founded by aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, the low fare carrier merges kindness and technology to deliver its signature Seriously Nice™ nonstop service between secondary airports, bypassing hubs and saving Guests time and money. The airline recently announced an order of 80 A220-300 aircraft, the first of which will enter service in May, 2022. With Breeze, there are never any change or cancellation fees.

About Charleston International Airport
Charleston International Airport (CHS) provides first-class facilities and amenities that embrace the history, culture and beauty of Charleston and the Lowcountry of South Carolina. The airport is centrally located in the Charleston, S.C., metropolitan area and provides an exceptional first impression of the Lowcountry for more than 4 million passengers traveling for business and leisure activities. Chartered in 1970 by the State of South Carolina as a special purpose district, the governing body, the Charleston County Aviation Authority, is responsible for managing, operating and developing all public airports in the Charleston County Airport District. That includes CHS as well as general aviation facilities the Charleston Executive Airport (JZI) on Johns Island and the Mount Pleasant Regional Airport (LRO). The runways at CHS are owned by the U.S. Air Force and Joint Base Charleston and are shared by CHS through what is the longest running civilian/military joint-use agreement of its kind with the Department of Defense. Boeing South Carolina, the final assembly for the 787 Dreamliner, sits on approximately 730 acres of land adjacent to CHS. (iflychs.com)

About Explore Charleston As the region’s destination management and marketing organization, Explore Charleston represents ten municipalities across three counties. It seeks to unify and lead the local travel industry in marketing the Charleston area, create overnight visitation, and support responsible development through travel and tourism strategies. (explorecharleston.com)

Media Contacts:

Charleston International Airport, Spencer Pryor, spryor@iflychs.com

Explore Charleston, Chris Campbell, ccampbell@explorecharleston.com

Breeze Airways, Gareth Edmondson-Jones, Gareth.edmondsonjones@flybreeze.com

SHL Medical, a world-leading provider of drug delivery solutions, today announced plans to establish operations in Charleston County. The company’s initial $90 million investment will create an estimated 165 new jobs.

Headquartered in Switzerland, SHL Medical designs, develops and manufactures drug delivery solutions for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies around the world. With years of experience, the company uses top-notch technology to create autoinjectors, pen injectors and innovative specialty delivery solutions that allow patients to self-inject at home. The company also offers contract manufacturing and engineering services for products such as wafer testing equipment, laboratory handling equipment, neurosurgical devices and industrial equipment.

Located at 7791 Palmetto Commerce Parkway in North Charleston, SHL Medical’s Charleston County operations will expand the company’s global footprint to meet growing demands for its products to support more customers.

Operations are expected to launch by the second quarter of 2024. Individuals interested in joining the SHL Medical 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 also awarded a $250,000 Set-Aside grant to Charleston County to assist with costs related to the project.

“I am delighted to announce SHL’s expansion into South Carolina. Our new U.S. site in North Charleston will be a state-of-the-art facility that will support our customers further with our end-to-end capabilities, providing high-quality drug delivery systems to the end users – patients around the world. This new facility brings us closer to our customers and reduces the risk of supply chain disturbances. Furthermore, it will support our sustainability goals by lessening global shipping distances. I want to acknowledge the support that we have received from the state and county levels for this project.” –SHL Medical Chairman and CEO Ulrich Faessler

“We are proud to welcome SHL Medical to South Carolina. Not only will they contribute to Charleston County’s economic development, but also to the booming life sciences industry of the state. We welcome their $90 million investment and the 165 new jobs they will create.” -Gov. Henry McMaster 

“We are excited to see South Carolina’s life sciences sector continue to expand as we add SHL Medical to the list of companies operating within our state. More and more international medical companies are deciding to locate in South Carolina because of our business-friendly environment and talented workforce. We congratulate SHL Medical and look forward to a strong partnership for many years to come.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“When an international company like SHL Medical invests in Charleston County, it is a testament to our people and community. We have the proven workforce and business-friendly climate that is attractive to life-science companies.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“We are proud to welcome SHL Medical to our robust and growing life science sector in the City of North Charleston.  With the establishment in our region and tremendous job creation, our highly capable, local workforce is well-equipped to fulfill the company’s global mission. We affirm our commitment to SHL Medical and look forward to future growth and success.” – North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“We applaud SHL Medical for choosing the Charleston region to expand its U.S. operations. SHL Medical will bring the innovation and sustainability to Charleston County that they are known for internationally, as well as highly skilled jobs, further advancing our competitiveness in life sciences.” -Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board Chairman Mike Fuller

“As a globally respected designer and manufacturer of drug delivery services, SHL Medical is a tremendous addition to South Carolina’s booming life sciences ecosystem. Our state’s strong relations with Switzerland will be further enhanced with SHL’s decision to grow and expand their North American markets from South Carolina.” – South Carolina Biotechnology Industry Organization (SCBIO) CEO James Chappell

“Congratulations to SHL Medical on  establishing their new U.S. operations in Charleston County. We are proud to help support their decision to grow their global footprint in our community.”– Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• SHL Medical is establishing operations in Charleston County.
• The company’s initial $90 million investment will create an estimated 165 new jobs.
• SHL Medical is a world-leading provider of drug delivery solutions.
• Located at 7791 Palmetto Commerce Parkway in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the SHL Medical team should visit the company’s careers 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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Golfbreaks by PGA TOUR (Golfbreaks), a leading, worldwide golf vacation specialist, today announced plans to expand operations in Charleston County. The company’s expansion will create 32 new jobs in the next two years.

Founded in 1998 in the United Kingdom, Golfbreaks specializes in organizing golf trips throughout the United States (U.S.) and around the world. As the ‘Official Golf Vacation Partner’ of the PGA TOUR, the company offers golfers a top-class, hassle-free service by arranging tee times, accommodations, ground transportation, tournament tickets and much more.

Located at 474 Wando Park Blvd. in Mount Pleasant since 2016, Golfbreaks’ Charleston County operation serves as its North American office and was recruited through the state’s Landing Pad program. The company’s expansion will allow Golfbreaks to increase its service volume to the U.S. and Canadian golfers who take trips domestically and overseas.

Individuals interested in joining the Golfbreaks team should visit the company’s careers page or email resumes to the company.

“With minimal travel restrictions now in place and a lot of pent-up demand, Golfbreaks is growing rapidly. If you like golf and enjoy delivering unforgettable memories to fellow travelers, then a career at Golfbreaks may be perfect for you. Our enthusiastic and vibrant team in Mount Pleasant is on a very exciting journey with our partners at the PGA TOUR.” -Golfbreaks by PGA TOUR CEO Daniel Grave

“South Carolina’s golf industry has seen significant growth in recent years, and today’s announcement by Golfbreaks shows that this momentum is not slowing down. I congratulate Golfbreaks on their expansion and look forward to their continued growth in South Carolina.” –Gov. Henry McMaster

“Golfbreaks’ expansion in Charleston County is a hole-in-one for our state’s golfing industry and the local community. A worldwide leader in their field, we look forward to many more years of a successful partnership with Golfbreaks.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are thrilled with Golfbreaks’ decision to invest further in our community and create 32 new jobs for our citizens. Charleston County is a natural fit as we have a passion for golf and more importantly, we have a desire to foster business growth.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“We congratulate Golfbreaks by PGA Tour on the expansion of their Mount Pleasant facility, and we welcome the 32 new jobs added to our community. In doing so, they have helped us to further establish our town as a place folks can live, work, and of course, play golf. We look forward to their continued success here in Mount Pleasant for many years to come. – Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie

“The rapid growth and expansion of Golfbreaks goes to show how this international company is a contributor to the business and tourism growth both within our region and globally. Golfbreaks has been a tee-rific partner to Charleston County, and we look forward to their continued success.” – Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Golfbreaks by PGA TOUR (Golfbreaks) is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• Will create 32 new jobs in the next two years.
• Golfbreaks is a leading, worldwide golf vacation specialist.
• Located at 474 Wando Park Blvd. in Mount Pleasant, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Golfbreaks team should visit the company’s careers page or email resumes to the company.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For more than two decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industry 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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Robert Thomas Iron Design, LLC, a modern blacksmithing company, today announced plans to expand operations in Charleston County. The company’s $2.9 million investment will create 45 new jobs over the next three years.

Founded in 2013, Robert Thomas Iron Design, LLC intertwines traditional blacksmith techniques with modern machining and fabrication methods to craft iron pieces ranging from custom architectural ironwork commissions to volume-produced pieces of furniture, decorative hardware and cookware.

Relocating within the county to 56 Hayter Street in North Charleston, Robert Thomas Iron Design, LLC’s new facility will expand the company’s operational footprint to accommodate production line growth.

The expansion is expected to be complete in the second quarter of 2023.  Individuals interested in joining Robert Thomas Iron Design team should visit the company’s career page.

“We are excited about the next phase of Robert Thomas Iron Design’s growth and are very happy that we are able to do this on the historic Navy Base. Our expanded operations will enable our growing community of craftsmen and designers to have the space, equipment and support they need to keep the spirit of blacksmithing thriving in Charleston.” –Robert Thomas Iron Design Owner Robert Thomas

“The success of our existing industries is critical to South Carolina’s strong and growing economy. Today we celebrate Robert Thomas Iron Design, LLC’s expansion and 45 new jobs in Charleston County. Congratulations, and we look forward to their continued success.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“Congratulations to Robert Thomas Iron Design, LLC on expanding in Charleston County. It’s particularly exciting to announce the growth of a modern blacksmithing company such as Robert Thomas Iron Design, LLC We look forward to seeing how the company continues to inspire modern craftsmanship in Charleston County and across South Carolina.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Blacksmithing is experiencing a modern artistic revival, and we are proud that Robert Thomas Iron Design, LLC has committed to growing this craft in Charleston County. Their investment and creation of new jobs is a welcome addition to the community.” –Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“The work of Robert Thomas Iron Design embodies the heart of the North Charleston workforce.  A diverse group of individuals who showcase unparalleled craftsmanship daily.  We are proud to see Robert Thomas Iron Design’s signature work in the world and celebrate with them on their expansion within the City of North Charleston.” – North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“The Navy Yard Industrial Campus is a fitting location for Robert Thomas Iron Design’s expansion. The historic buildings embody the tradition of metal fabrication, while creating an innovative ecosystem for craftsman and artists to modernize the art of blacksmithing. We congratulate Robert Thomas Iron Design and look forward to assisting with their continued growth.” – Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Robert Thomas Iron Design, LLC is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• The company’s $2.9 million investment will create 45 new jobs over the next three years.
• Robert Thomas Iron Design, LLC is a rapidly growing, modern blacksmithing company.
• Located at 56 Hayter Street, North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining Robert Thomas Iron Design, LLC team should visit the company’s career page.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For more than two decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industry 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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Daye North America, a subsidiary of Ningbo Daye Garden Machinery Company, today announced plans to expand operations in Charleston County. The $3.5 million investment will create 131 new jobs.

Founded in 2017, Daye North America is an industry leader in the development of innovative, high-quality and easy-to-use outdoor power equipment including gas-powered and battery-powered lawn mowers, string trimmers, blowers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, lawn tractors and zero turn radius riding mowers.

Located at 8060 Commerce Center Road in North Charleston, Daye North America’s expansion will create additional assembly space for lawnmowers before distribution to local, regional and national retailers.

The expansion is complete, and individuals interested in joining the Daye North America team should email the company

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has awarded Charleston County a $250,000 Set-Aside grant to assist with the cost of building improvements.

“Daye North America is pleased to announce the expansion of our South Carolina operations.  In the past year we have been greeted with open arms by the state.  We have experienced first-hand the hospitality of South Carolina and the dynamic hard-working people who call it home.  We look forward to more opportunities to expand our operations here.” –Daye North America President Matt Ragland

“We are thrilled that Daye North America is expanding just a year and a half after establishing their operations in Charleston County. This growth shows that our state has the pro-business environment and workforce in place where companies find success.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“South Carolina is home to a roster of globally respected firms, and today’s announcement that Daye North America is expanding helps prove our reputation as a manufacturing powerhouse. Congratulations to the Daye North America team, and we look forward to working with them for many more years to come.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Daye North America established operations in our community in 2020, and quickly found success. This expansion is a testament to our business-friendly practices and the strength of our regional economy. Congratulations to Daye North America and thank you for your commitment to Charleston County!” –Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“We celebrate Daye North America’s expansion and the capital investment invested in our community. Our strong workforce, culture and key connections to the manufacturing industry continues to provide advantages to our companies.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Daye North America is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• The $3.5 million investment will create 131 new jobs.
• Daye North America is a subsidiary of Ningbo Daye Garden Machinery Company.
• Located at 8060 Commerce Center Road in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Daye North America team should email the company.

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, Project Manager, Existing Industry

The annual South Carolina Automotive Summit hosted by the SC Automotive Council is the pinnacle event for South Carolina’s automotive industry. It “draws C-level executives, managers and other top decision makers of OEMs, Tier 1, 2 and 3 suppliers, leading research institutions, test facilities, logistics and other service providers and organizations directly tied to the automotive industry.” The speakers, presentations, and attendees are forward thinking industry leaders which makes for phenomenal networking discussions. Charleston County Economic Development attends the summit annually to represent our existing industries and stay ahead of emerging industry trends. A few key topics of discussion surfaced throughout the Automotive Summit and can be distilled into Electrification/Autonomy/Innovation, The Global Economy, and Sustainability.

Electrification, Autonomy, Innovation
The automotive industry is in the midst of a revolution, and vehicle electrification is leading the charge. Automotive OEMS are placing big bets on electric vehicle platforms and new OEMS continue to surface. The key to BEV (battery electric vehicles) adoption will be infrastructure installments for recharging as well as increased battery capacity. Additional capacity for battery manufacturing will also be necessary to fulfill the increasing demand as just 25% of the manufacturing capacity currently exists globally. Thermal management systems for BEVs are improving which are contributing to improved efficiency and battery life, increasing range and power output. Amongst challenges, tech companies in the Silicon Valley continue to move the needle forward on all levels of autonomous driving. A few companies are developing eVTOLs (electric vertical take-off and landing aircrafts) which could someday transform the way we commute.

The Global Economy
The global demand for new and used vehicles remains strong, but we are reminded that the economy is indeed, global. Supply chain challenges in global shipping and microchip shortages are limiting supply which are contributing to higher sticker prices of new and used passenger vehicles. Conflict in the Ukraine is increasing prices at the pump, helping the case for electrification, but the larger concern for automotive manufacturers is that Ukraine is a global supplier of wiring harnesses. Meanwhile, Russia is a substantial producer of palladium gas that is part of the battery manufacturing process. Airfreight challenges may surface as no-fly zones are established so the delivery of critical automotive components could be affected. Manufacturers continue to increase cybersecurity efforts to stay ahead of potential global threats.

Sustainability
Bridgestone and the rest of the tire industry are undergoing sweeping changes in sustainability and innovating toward material circularity. Reusable tires, sustainable raw materials, and human health/ safety are the primary goals of the highly-regarded Tire Industry Project. The partners for the project are some of the largest tire manufacturers in the world, many of which are located right here in South Carolina. SustainSC is setting the table for companies to prioritize carbon neutrality, water quality, renewable energy and a circular economy. Their partnership with the State’s largest manufacturers promises to accelerate and highlight sustainability in manufacturing.

Join the conversation! What industry trends or developments are you witnessing that could affect South Carolina’s automotive industry?

CCED’s Business Concierge Team at the SC Automotive Summit