Life Sciences

Charles River Laboratories expands Charleston County operations

ctrammell@sccommerce.com — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 20:48:07 +0000

Charles River Laboratories expands Charleston County operations ctrammell@scco… Tue, 08/19/2025 - 16:48

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. (Charles River), a leading global drug discovery, development, testing and manufacturing solutions provider, today announced it is expanding its operations in Charleston County. The company is investing $13 million in its microbial solutions facility.

Founded in 1947, Charles River provides products and services to help expedite the discovery, early-stage development and manufacture of drugs and therapeutics. The company's Charleston County site was established more than 30 years ago and offers a portfolio of quality control testing solutions.

Charles River will construct a new cleanroom at its existing site to install automation equipment to produce cartridges for its portable testing system (PTS), as well as its multi-cartridge system (MCS). Charles River’s proprietary, FDA-licensed cartridge technology reduces the need for limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) or recombinant raw materials by 95% compared to traditional testing methods, while reducing hands-on time (HOT) and, ultimately, technician variability.

In 2023, Charles River introduced its latest innovation, Endosafe Trillium, an animal-free endotoxin testing solution which strengthens the company’s commitment to sustainability while maintaining patient safety as the top priority. Additionally, the Charleston site recently launched a cartridge recycling program with TerraCycle, which recycles and repurposes water testing cartridges into new products such as outdoor furniture, storage bins, park benches and other durable goods.

Operations are expected to be online in the fourth quarter of 2025.

QUOTES

“Investing in advanced manufacturing is more than just increasing efficiency, it reflects our company’s commitment to being at the forefront of technology in a rapidly evolving environment. Automation allows us to produce our products with the greatest precision, consistency and safety. It also gives our teams the opportunity to focus on high-value work.”
-Charles River Laboratories Charleston Site Senior Director Niall Power

“This expansion from Charles River Laboratories is further proof that our state has the business environment needed for life sciences companies to find success. We are proud the company is deepening its commitment to Charleston County and South Carolina.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster

“Charles River Laboratories’ announcement is another great boost for South Carolina’s thriving life sciences industry. Congratulations to Charleston County on this $13 million expansion.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“For over three decades, Charles River Laboratories has been a valued part of our business community, and we are thrilled they are continuing to invest in their future here."
-Charleston County Council Chairman Rev. Dr. Kylon Jerome Middleton

Wednesday, August 20, 2025 Advanced Manufacturing Life Sciences Company investing $13 million in microbial solutions facilityExpansions

Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. (Charles River) is expanding its operations in Charleston County.

The company is investing $13 million in its microbial solutions facility.

Charles River is a biotechnology research and development company.

The company is located at 1023 Wappoo Road in Charleston, S.C.

The Charleston facility produces quality control testing solutions.

Press ReleaseOff

Bio International

stonnessen@trone.com — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 12:28:47 +0000

Bio International stonnessen@trone.com Fri, 06/06/2025 - 08:28 to manufacturing.

Biotechnology is flourishing in South Carolina

/sites/default/files/2019-04/life-sciences-hero.jpg

The life sciences industry is recognizing South Carolina as a top destination.

Recent investments and expansions by leading biotech companies have brought recognition to South Carolina as a top destination for life sciences industry companies. With a talented and innovative workforce, top research institutions and world-class hospital systems, the Palmetto State boasts an expanding biotech industry infrastructure.

With such exceptional assets, a dynamic group of bulk manufacturers, chemical processors, generic and proprietary pharmaceutical developers, hygiene product producers, and packagers and related research and development companies have all decided to make their home in South Carolina. As a result, the Palmetto State has cultivated a truly cutting-edge life sciences sector.

Build the life—and the science—that propels the future.

Visit Booth #447 to discover how South Carolina is advancing biotechnology

Download our 5-Year Strategic Plan

SC Life Sciences Facts

6,209

new life sciences jobs announced from 2017–2024

87,773

South Carolinians employed in the life sciences sector

$25.7 billion

annual economic impact of South Carolina’s life sciences industry

Fastest growing life sciences sector in the Southeast and in the state

1,033

life sciences companies currently operating in SC

$958 million

in export sales of medical instruments and pharmaceutical products in 2024

Download Industry Snapshot

Nurturing life sciences, from launch to legacy

Advancing life sciences

The life sciences industry is South Carolina’s fastest growing sector, accounting for an annual economic impact of $25.7 billion. With high growth potential and average wages nearly 80% above the state’s average, the industry’s upward trajectory is part of its selection as one of three target sectors in S.C. Commerce’s new strategic framework to guide future economic development efforts, announced in January 2024.

Advancing Life Sciences, from Launch to Legacy

Showcasing life sciences in SC

The life sciences industry has built a solid foothold in South Carolina, where today it ranks as the Southeast’s fastest-growing life sciences ecosystem according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. To celebrate and promote this expanding industry cluster, a delegation of more than 40 Palmetto State life sciences representatives and state leaders participated in the BIO International Convention (BIO 2024) June 3-6, 2024, in San Diego, California.

Showcasing South Carolina's Life Sciences Community

Growing relations

United Kingdom-South Carolina Relations Grow

Life Sciences Feature Story

Belimed Life Science

Belimed Life Science is a Swiss founded manufacturer of products used in the manufacturing process of lifesaving vaccines and drug therapies. The leading supplier of steam sterilizers and parts washers with operations, Charleston County is its first US site.

Read press release

Life Sciences & Pharmaceutical Companies in South Carolina

View All Life Sciences Companies

SC Life Sciences Industry Profile

"Since 1995, South Carolina's commitment to our success has allowed our company to continue to expand."

- The Ritedose Corp. President and CEO Dr. Umesh Dalvi

Ritedose recently announced a multi-phased expansion in South Carolina, with an investment of more than $81M over 4 years.”

“In 1992, with only two employees, my dad, pharmacist Robert Henderson, founded our company. This is a reflection of free enterprise and shows the American success story is alive and well in our country. Our company’s mission is quite simple: To serve the Lord and glorify Him using the gifts He has given our employees to research, develop, manufacture and market products that improve the quality of life for people and their pets. We have fantastic employees, and they are our greatest asset. We plan to continue to be a part of making Lancaster a great place to work and live, including providing support to local organizations that are in line with our Mission, inspiring others to humbly serve our community.”

– Nutramax Laboratories President and CEO Todd Henderson DVM

Tax Incentives for Life Sciences Manufacturers

South Carolina offers aggressive tax incentives to support research and development and life science industry growth. Pharmaceutical companies, biomedical manufacturing companies, medical device manufacturers and others in the life sciences manufacturing space can benefit from SC’s pro-business policies.

SC Tax Incentives for Life Sciences

Industry news

Move your company from what it is to what it could be.

Isn’t it time to advance your company’s legacy? Let’s start talking about the possibilities of relocating to South Carolina.

Life Sciences From researchOncenter centerOn

Xoted Biotechnology Labs establishing operations in Spartanburg County

ctrammell@sccommerce.com — Thu, 08 May 2025 11:43:14 +0000

Xoted Biotechnology Labs establishing operations in Spartanburg County ctrammell@scco… Thu, 05/08/2025 - 07:43

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Xoted Biotechnology Labs (Xoted), a cutting-edge research and development center, announces plans to establish operations in Spartanburg County. The $4.2 million investment marks a significant advancement in sustainable biotechnology and scientific innovation, creating 34 new job opportunities at launch.

Xoted – a subsidiary of DRC Ventures, a global leader in biotech, nutraceutical, and environmental innovation, and TRB Holdings – is dedicated to clean, innovative solutions that enhance lives and empower industries. The company’s new facility, located in the Spark Center at 1875 East Main St. in Duncan, will focus on plant-based detoxification, seed research, and next-generation applications in textiles and cleanroom technology. In addition to product development, the new operation will serve as a hub for STEM education and scientific research.

Operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the Xoted team should visit the company’s website.

QUOTES

“South Carolina shares our value of integrity, innovation and clean living. It’s the ideal place to build a future-focused, clean manufacturing facility that puts science, sustainability and people first.”
-DRC Ventures Founder and Chief Science Officer Dr. Christina Rahm

“South Carolina continues to attract innovative businesses, and we’re proud to welcome Xoted Biotechnology Labs to Spartanburg County. With a $4.2 million investment and 34 new jobs, this announcement reflects the strength of our workforce and the confidence companies have in our state. We look forward to a strong, lasting partnership with Xoted.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster

“Innovative life sciences companies continue to recognize South Carolina as an ideal destination for locating research and development operations. We proudly welcome Xoted Biotechnology Labs to Spartanburg County and are excited to see all it will achieve in our state in the years ahead.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“The research and development hub and the sheer volume of proprietary manufacturing processes Xoted is bringing to Spartanburg County are a win for the entire state of South Carolina. In the last 30 years, our economy has grown more and more thanks to highly skilled STEM jobs. Biotechnology has been called the next frontier, and we are glad to partner with a company that is at the forefront of this space.”
-Spartanburg County Council Vice Chairman and Economic Development Committee Chairman David Britt

Thursday, May 8, 2025 Life Sciences Research & Development $4.2 million investment will create 34 new jobsNew Business

Xoted Biotechnology Labs (Xoted) is establishing operations in Spartanburg County.

The company's $4.2 million investment will create 34 new jobs.

Xoted is a cutting-edge research and development center.

Individuals interested in joining the Xoted team should visit the company's website.

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South Carolina Continues to Strengthen U.K. Trade Ties

stonnessen@trone.com — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 18:01:12 +0000

South Carolina Continues to Strengthen U.K. Trade Ties Tuesday, September 10, 2024 stonnessen@trone.com Mon, 12/30/2024 - 13:01

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and S.C. Commerce staff, led by Deputy Secretary of Commerce Ashely Teasdel, welcomed British Ambassador to the U.S. Dame Karen Pierce DCMG, to Columbia, S.C., to further economic development and trade relation discussions.

S.C. Commerce Deputy Director of Global Business Development Jon Baggett (left); S.C. Commerce Chief Protocol Officer Clarke Thompson (second from left); S.C. Commerce Deputy Secretary Ashely Teasdel (center); British Ambassador to the U.S. Dame Karen Pierce DCMG (second from right); and South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster (right) pose during a meeting Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024.

The meeting underscores South Carolina’s growing relationship with the United Kingdom, catalyzed by the December 2022 memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two. Most recently, a South Carolina delegation toured England to advance opportunities in procurement, health and life sciences, and transportation and infrastructure.

The U.K. was a top 10 export market for S.C. in 2023, with export sales exceeding $1.3 billion. Read more about the MOU agreement and the opportunities outlined to grow transatlantic economic development.

Ashely Teasdel United Kingdom England life sciences advanced manufacturing automotive energy research GBD exportAutomotiveHeadquarters and Corporate OfficesLife SciencesNewsletterOff

Samaritan Biologics expanding Greenville County operations

ctrammell@sccommerce.com — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 19:21:02 +0000

Samaritan Biologics expanding Greenville County operations ctrammell@scco… Tue, 11/12/2024 - 14:21

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Samaritan Biologics, a medical technology company, today announced it is expanding its operations in Greenville County. The company’s $5 million investment will create 85 new jobs.

Founded in 2019, Samaritan Biologics develops, manufactures and distributes human amniotic allograft products for wound care and surgical applications. The company currently operates a research and education facility at the Clemson University Biomedical Engineering Innovation Campus (CUBEInC) in Greenville.

Samaritan Biologics will lease an 11,000-square-foot manufacturing facility located in the new Flex Lab One on the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR) campus at 215 Innovation Drive in Greenville. The facility will include five clean rooms for the processing of human cellular tissue products.

Operations are expected to be online in January 2025. Individuals interested in joining the Samaritan Biologics team should email resumes to info@samaritanbiologics.com.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $100,000 Set-Aside grant to Greenville County to assist with the costs of building improvements.

QUOTES

“Samaritan Biologics recognizes that Greenville, S.C. has evolved into a region fueled by research, businesses, and a smart, young and creative workforce that both thrives on, and is a catalyst for innovation. With cutting-edge research and advanced therapies, Samaritan Biologics is not only offering new hope for healing but also fostering economic growth and attracting top talent to the state. With the support of South Carolina and Greenville County, this commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation will bring transformative care to patients and our communities.”
-Samaritan Biologics COO and Managing Partner Jerry Chang

“Samaritan Biologics’ decision to invest $5 million and create 85 new jobs in Greenville County is great news for the Upstate. We are proud to have Samaritan Biologics on the roster of innovative life sciences companies operating in our state and look forward to continuing a successful partnership in the years ahead.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster

“As a fast-growing industry in our state, the life sciences sector continues to create opportunities for the people of South Carolina. We are grateful Samaritan Biologics selected Greenville County for its manufacturing facility and are excited to witness the impact of this announcement.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Samaritan Biologics’ investment in Greenville County not only brings new jobs and capital investment but also strengthens our life sciences industry. Their cutting-edge work in regenerative medicine will make a difference in the lives of patients worldwide, and we are proud to be part of their success story. Greenville County continues to grow as a center of innovation, and Samaritan’s presence reinforces that momentum.”
-Greenville County Council Chairman Dan Tripp

“With multiple robust healthcare systems, a medical university and a rapidly evolving life sciences hub, Greenville offers Samaritan Biologics a ready-made network of physicians and researchers. Their location at CU-ICAR, a nucleus of innovation and thought leadership, will propel their efforts to develop the next generation of products to treat complex health issues.”
-Greenville Mayor Knox White

“Clemson University is excited to welcome Samaritan Biologics to the CU-ICAR campus community. As a research campus dedicated to supporting technology-based economic development in South Carolina, CU-ICAR is home to 20 companies in addition to a number of university research centers and labs. Samaritan Biologics’ decision to locate on our campus is a testament to the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship here at CU-ICAR and furthers our mission to foster university-industry collaborations and attract new jobs to the region.”
-CU-ICAR Executive Director David Clayton

FIVE FAST FACTS

Samaritan Biologics is expanding its operations in Edgefield County.
The company's $5 million investment will create 85 new jobs.
Samaritan Biologics is a medical technology company.
The company will be located at 215 Innovation Drive in Greenville, S.C.
Individuals interested in joining the Samaritan Biologics team should email resumes to info@samaritanbiologics.com.

Wednesday, November 13, 2024 Life Sciences $5 million investment will create 85 new jobsExpansions Press ReleaseOff

South Carolina Recognized in Business Facilities’ Latest Rankings

stonnessen@trone.com — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 16:57:57 +0000

South Carolina Recognized in Business Facilities’ Latest Rankings Tuesday, August 13, 2024 stonnessen@trone.com Tue, 09/10/2024 - 12:57

South Carolina is built for the new economy. Industry magazine Business Facilities recently recognized the state for many of the attributes C-Suite executives and small business owners alike have already come to appreciate. From a business-friendly climate and favorable corporate tax climate and beyond, there’s a reason South Carolina remains the leading destination for inbound movers in 2024. S.C. Commerce is ready to help businesses looking to begin their success story in South Carolina today.

Why SC L2L small business headquarters relocation success storiesAdvanced ManufacturingAdvanced MaterialsAerospaceAgribusinessAutomotiveDistribution & LogisticsElectric VehiclesExportingHeadquarters and Corporate OfficesHigh-TechLife SciencesOffice & Shared ServicesRecyclingResearch & DevelopmentSmall BusinessNewsletterOff

United Kingdom-South Carolina Relations Grow

stonnessen@trone.com — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 16:53:17 +0000

United Kingdom-South Carolina Relations Grow Tuesday, August 13, 2024 stonnessen@trone.com Tue, 09/10/2024 - 12:53

In mid-July, Deputy Secretary of Commerce Ashely Teasdel and S.C. Commerce led a state delegation throughout the United Kingdom. The mission trip helped grow bilateral collaboration, strengthen economic ties and build trade relations — continuing to advance the December 2022 memorandum of understanding between the two economies.

South Carolina Deputy Secretary of Commerce Ashely Teasdel (left) presents a gift to United Kingdom Director of International Trade Relations Cathryn Law.

The South Carolina and United Kingdom working group representatives pose together in front of the Admiralty Administrative Building in London.

As the second official convening of the S.C.-U.K. delegation, the group toured England to meet government officials and private industry representatives, discussing procurement, health and life sciences, and transportation and infrastructure.

Other industries including advanced manufacturing, automotive, energy, and research and development remain key areas of exploration for the working group. These conversations come at a pivotal time following the U.K.’s recent elections, helping ensure South Carolina remain a global economic partner and collaborative ally.

Ashely Teasdel United Kingdom England life sciences advanced manufacturing automotive energy research GBDAutomotiveHeadquarters and Corporate OfficesLife SciencesResearch & DevelopmentNewsletterOff

For Business Growth and Success, SelectUSA

stonnessen@trone.com — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:51:31 +0000

For Business Growth and Success, SelectUSA Tuesday, June 11, 2024 stonnessen@trone.com Tue, 06/11/2024 - 11:51

Foreign direct investment (FDI) is pivotal to South Carolina’s economy, accounting for more than 30% of announced economic development investments in 2023 alone. Today, over 1,100 internationally owned operations exist statewide — even for those with locations throughout the world, South Carolina-based operations stand out in helping drive global success.

To share the benefits of locating in South Carolina with the world, S.C. Commerce and economic developers from across the state are heading to SelectUSA Summit, the nation’s largest, concentrated showcase of the benefits of investing in the United States.

Meet with state and economic development leadership at Booth 1010 in the exhibit hall to explore South Carolina’s strategic approaches to support FDI and new and existing industry growth, from launch to legacy. Be on the lookout for S.C. representatives at the Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (Tech Hubs) booth in the U.S. Government Pavilion who will share more about the South Carolina Nexus for Advanced Resilient Energy Tech Hub.

FDI GBD international SelectUSA Tech Hub SC NexusAdvanced ManufacturingAdvanced MaterialsAerospaceAgribusinessAutomotiveDistribution & LogisticsElectric VehiclesExportingHeadquarters and Corporate OfficesHigh-TechLife SciencesOffice & Shared ServicesRecyclingResearch & DevelopmentSmall BusinessNewsletterOff

Showcasing South Carolina's Life Sciences Community

stonnessen@trone.com — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:48:03 +0000

Showcasing South Carolina's Life Sciences Community Tuesday, June 11, 2024 stonnessen@trone.com Tue, 06/11/2024 - 11:48

Above, S.C. Commerce Deputy Secretary Ashely Teasdel (second row, center) poses with the South Carolina contingent, led by SCbio, representing industry, higher education, research institutions and economic development organizations, at the BIO International Convention June 4, 2024.

One of the nation’s largest life sciences trade shows, BIO 2024 draws tens of thousands of attendees from around the globe representing sectors that include biotechnology startups and major pharmaceutical manufacturers, research and development organizations, higher education professionals, and beyond.

Companies across a variety of life sciences and biotechnology industries have flourished in South Carolina, including “Launch to Legacy” success story Nephron Pharmaceuticals. To nurture the continued development of local life sciences legacy companies and spur the launch of startups, industry association SCbio recently opened applications for its new SCbioDrive accelerator program for emerging life sciences companies, developed in partnership with MassBio. The deadline to submit applications for the inaugural cohort is Friday, June 28, 2024; learn more and apply today.

life sciences SCbio biotechnology pharmaceuticalHeadquarters and Corporate OfficesLife SciencesNewsletterOff

Tourism Economy Creates Long-Term Impact, Opportunities

stonnessen@trone.com — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:43:09 +0000

Tourism Economy Creates Long-Term Impact, Opportunities Tuesday, June 11, 2024 stonnessen@trone.com Tue, 06/11/2024 - 11:43

Source: South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism; Perry Baker

When a state is rich in natural beauty, from the rolling foothills of the Appalachian Mountains to scenic sandy beaches, it’s hard to keep many destinations a secret. The word has long been out that South Carolina is a top stop, with its world-class golf courses and reigning destination cities, to name just a few.

To celebrate the economic impact, cultural contributions and career opportunities the tourism industry generates statewide, Governor Henry McMaster joined the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism to designate May 19-25, 2024, as “South Carolina Travel and Tourism Week.” This proclamation aligned with National Travel and Tourism Week, established by Congress in 1983 to “elevate the power of travel.”

Governor Henry McMaster joins state, recreation and tourism leaders to celebrate the designation of May 19-25, 2024, as “South Carolina Travel and Tourism Week.” Source: South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism

One in 10 jobs is attributed to the hospitality industry, totaling more than 200,000 economic opportunities throughout South Carolina. As a whole, tourism is estimated to contribute more than $29 billion in economic impact to the state, with tourism-related tax collections reducing the tax burden per resident by nearly $1,000.

Visitors are also finding that South Carolina isn’t just a great place to visit or vacation; it’s a great place to live. Last month, both Charleston and Greenville made the U.S. News’ annual “25 Best Places to Live in the U.S.” rankings. The recognitions don’t stop there — the same cities cracked the top five of Southern Living’s “15 Friendliest Cities in the South” list. Meanwhile, Beaufort and Spartanburg placed in the top five, respectively, of the leisure magazine’s complementary ranking of the South’s 20 friendliest towns.

From bountiful tourism-related job and career opportunities to communities where people love to live, work and play, it’s no wonder South Carolina saw 1.7% growth in 2023, the highest in the nation. For businesses looking to find their next new home, hear firsthand from local executives about the state’s opportunities for businesses, from launch to legacy.

Why SC tourism L2LAdvanced ManufacturingAdvanced MaterialsAerospaceAgribusinessAutomotiveDistribution & LogisticsElectric VehiclesExportingHeadquarters and Corporate OfficesHigh-TechLife SciencesOffice & Shared ServicesRecyclingResearch & DevelopmentSmall Business

Life Sciences

Charles River Laboratories expands Charleston County operations

Bio International

Biotechnology is flourishing in South Carolina

The life sciences industry is recognizing South Carolina as a top destination.

Build the life—and the science—that propels the future.

SC Life Sciences Facts

Nurturing life sciences, from launch to legacy

Advancing life sciences

Showcasing life sciences in SC

Growing relations

Subscribe for the latest news

Life Sciences Feature Story

Belimed Life Science

Life Sciences & Pharmaceutical Companies in South Carolina

SC Life Sciences Industry Profile

Tax Incentives for Life Sciences Manufacturers

Industry news

Move your company from what it is to what it could be.

Xoted Biotechnology Labs establishing operations in Spartanburg County

South Carolina Continues to Strengthen U.K. Trade Ties

Samaritan Biologics expanding Greenville County operations

South Carolina Recognized in Business Facilities’ Latest Rankings

United Kingdom-South Carolina Relations Grow

For Business Growth and Success, SelectUSA

Showcasing South Carolina's Life Sciences Community

Tourism Economy Creates Long-Term Impact, Opportunities