Advanced Materials

Cyclic Materials selects Chesterfield County for first East Coast operation

asherman@sccommerce.com — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 19:15:40 +0000

Cyclic Materials selects Chesterfield County for first East Coast operation asherman@sccom… Wed, 01/28/2026 - 14:15

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Cyclic Materials, a leader in recycling solutions for rare earth elements, today announced it selects Chesterfield County to establish the company’s first East Coast operation. The over $82 million investment will create 90 highly skilled jobs.

Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, Cyclic Materials uses innovative technology to source rare earth elements from end-of-life products, providing an environmentally sustainable supply chain alternative.

The company’s new co-located processing and manufacturing facility, to be located in the Alligator Industrial Park in McBee, will produce copper, steel, aluminum and mixed rare earth oxide.

Operations are expected to be online in 2028. Individuals interested in joining the Cyclic Materials team should visit the company’s careers page.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $500,000 Set-Aside grant to Chesterfield County to assist with the costs of building improvements.

“Our decision to invest in South Carolina reflects a deliberate strategy to grow a strong, interconnected U.S. recycling network. By expanding our footprint in the Southeast, we are positioning Cyclic Materials closer to partners, customers, talent and infrastructure that are critical for scaling secure and circular supply chains at a national level. The investment strengthens our ability to support American manufacturing, accelerate the commercialization of critical technologies, and build a more reliable and resilient domestic rare earths and critical metals ecosystem.”
-Cyclic Materials CEO and Founder Ahmad Ghahreman

“Cyclic Materials’ new facility in Chesterfield County reflects the confidence companies have in South Carolina’s workforce and our ability to support advanced manufacturing. This over $82 million investment will bring jobs to the community and strengthen the local economy.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster

“With the addition of 90 jobs, Cyclic Materials’ decision to establish operations in South Carolina is a testament to the outstanding economic development happening throughout our state. We look forward to the company’s future growth in Chesterfield County.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Cyclic Materials’ decision to invest over $82 million and create 90 high-paying skilled jobs in McBee, marks a historic milestone for Chesterfield County and for rural South Carolina. By betting big on communities like ours, this investment — one of the largest manufacturing commitments in the county’s history — signals strong confidence in our workforce and long-term economic future. Its impact will extend far beyond McBee, driving job creation, attracting new investment, strengthening workforce development and building a more resilient economy for generations. We thank Cyclic Materials for believing in McBee and Chesterfield County.”
-Chesterfield County Council Chairwoman Mary Anderson

Thursday, January 29, 2026 Advanced Manufacturing Advanced Materials Recycling Over $82 million investment will create 90 highly skilled jobsNew Business

Cyclic Materials selects Chesterfield County to establish the company’s first East Coast operation.

The company’s over $82 million investment will create 90 highly skilled jobs.

Cyclic Materials is a leader in recycling solutions for rare earth elements and other critical minerals.

This new Cyclic Materials’ Hub and Spoke campus will be located in the Alligator Industrial Park in McBee, S.C.

Individuals interested in joining the Cyclic Materials team should visit the company’s careers page.

Press ReleaseOn

Fenner Precision Polymers selects Cherokee County for new South Carolina operation

ctrammell@sccommerce.com — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 13:40:59 +0000

Fenner Precision Polymers selects Cherokee County for new South Carolina operation ctrammell@scco… Tue, 12/16/2025 - 08:40

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Fenner Precision Polymers (Fenner), a leader in reinforced polymer technology, today announced it selects Cherokee County to establish the company’s new South Carolina operation. The approximately $30 million investment will create 51 new jobs.

Founded in 1861, Fenner is a member of the Michelin Group of companies and specializes in manufacturing high-tech composite applications, from coated and calendered fabrics to shaped flexible components, belts and hoses. The company’s product lines support a variety of industries including manufacturing, material handling, food processing, aerospace, transportation and more.

Fenner's new 113,000-square-foot facility, located at 1 Commerce Drive in Gaffney, will expand its production capabilities and build in agility to adapt to evolving market needs.

Operations are expected to be online in mid-2026.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $350,000 Set-Aside grant to Cherokee County to assist with the costs of building improvements.

QUOTES

“We’re investing in scalable infrastructure that aligns with our long-term vision. The Gaffney site will showcase advanced coated fabric processing, applying our material science expertise to address demanding technical applications. We are excited to build a great place to work for our teams and to offer state-of-the-art capabilities for our customers. It is a true commitment to our sustainable and forward-looking growth strategy.”
-Fenner Precision Polymers Managing Director Vincent Peter

“With our skilled workforce and strong business environment, South Carolina continues to attract companies like Fenner Precision Polymers. We are proud to celebrate another win for rural South Carolina and applaud Fenner on this significant investment in Cherokee County.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster

“South Carolina’s rural communities are a critical part of state’s economy, and we are excited Fenner Precision Polymers selected Cherokee County for its new operation. This investment and the 51 jobs will provide increased opportunities and benefit the region for years to come.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Fenner’s decision to grow in Cherokee County is another strong reflection of the momentum we’re seeing across our community. Investments like this reinforce the confidence companies have in our workforce, our infrastructure, and the business-friendly environment we’ve worked hard to build. This new facility adds to the industrial strength of our county and supports the long-term prosperity we want for our residents. We’re proud to see continued growth here at home and appreciate Fenner for choosing Cherokee County as a place to expand their future.”
-Cherokee County Council Chairman Tim Spencer

Tuesday, December 16, 2025 Advanced Materials Approximately $30 million investment will create 51 new jobsNew Business

Fenner Precision Polymers (Fenner) selects Cherokee County to establish the company's new South Carolina operation.

The approximately $30 million investment will create 51 new jobs.

Fenner is a leader in reinforced polymer technology.

The company is located at 1 Commerce Drive in Gaffney, S.C.

Operations are expected to be online in mid-2026.

Press ReleaseOn

PRET Advanced Materials, LLC expands Florence County operations

ctrammell@sccommerce.com — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 21:53:32 +0000

PRET Advanced Materials, LLC expands Florence County operations ctrammell@scco… Wed, 12/10/2025 - 16:53

COLUMBIA, S.C. – PRET Advanced Materials, LLC (PRET), a leading advanced materials company, today announced it is expanding its operations in Florence County. The company’s $18.5 million investment will create 74 new jobs.

Headquartered in Johnsonville, PRET is one of the leading compounders and suppliers of thermoplastic resins in North America. The company’s South Carolina facility has operated continuously since 1955.

PRET is adding new equipment and improvements to its facility, located at 520 Kingsburg Highway in Johnsonville, to meet demand for new products.

Operations are expected to be online by 2027. Individuals interested in joining the PRET team should contact Stephanie Wisnom (843-386-8261).

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development awarded a $50,000 Set-Aside grant to Florence County to assist with the costs of road improvements.

QUOTES

“PRET Advanced Materials is proud to announce the expansion of its capabilities at our Johnsonville facility. This continued strong growth reflects PRET’s confidence in both our people and our long-standing relationship with Florence County and the state of South Carolina.”
-PRET Advanced Materials CEO Alex Zhou

“PRET Advanced Materials’ $18.5 million investment is a testament to the company’s commitment to South Carolina. We are grateful for the new opportunities this expansion will create in the Florence County community and look forward to strengthening our partnership with PRET in the years ahead.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster

“With an expansion that will create 74 new jobs, PRET Advanced Materials continues having a strong impact in the Florence County community. We are thrilled to see a company with such a longstanding legacy in our state continuing to find success. Congratulations on this exciting announcement.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are pleased to acknowledge the value that PRET Advanced Materials brings to our community. This $18.5 million dollar investment is projected to create 74 new jobs in southern Florence County. We commend their commitment to both their customers and their workforce. Florence County is delighted to have PRET’s compounding facility and state-of-the-art research and development center located in Johnsonville, South Carolina.”
-Florence County Council Chairman William Schofield

Thursday, December 11, 2025 Advanced Materials $18.5 million investment will create 74 new jobsExpansions

PRET Advanced Materials, LLC (PRET) is expanding its operations in Florence County.

The company's $18.5 million investment will create 74 new jobs.

PRET is a leading advanced materials company.

The company is located at 520 Kingsburg Highway in Johnsonville, S.C.

Individuals interested in joining the PRET team should contact Stephanie Wisnom (843-386-8261).

Press ReleaseOff

Arclin expanding Dillon County operations

ctrammell@sccommerce.com — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 13:26:21 +0000

Arclin expanding Dillon County operations ctrammell@scco… Mon, 08/11/2025 - 09:26

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Arclin, a materials science company, today announced it is expanding its operations in Dillon County. The company’s more than $60 million investment will create over 30 new jobs.

Headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, Arclin is a provider of building solutions and polymer technologies for industries including agriculture, construction, electronics, energy, pharmaceuticals and more. The company operates manufacturing facilities and offices throughout the U.S. and Canada and manufactures for customers worldwide.

The expansion will add 60,000 square feet and a new production line to Arclin’s existing facility, located at 219 Harllees Bridge Road in Dillon, to meet increased customer and market demand.

Operations are expected to be online in July 2026. Individuals interested in joining the Arclin team should visit the company’s careers page.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $250,000 Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to Dillon County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.

QUOTES

“We are pleased to be expanding our Dillon, S.C., facility, which builds on the success we’ve experienced in this location since 2022. We are proud to be a part of this community and are excited to continue growing alongside our valuable partners, unlocking a brighter future for everyone.”
-Arclin President and Chief Executive Officer Bradley Bolduc

“By investing more than $60 million in Dillon County, Arclin is strengthening its commitment to South Carolina and deepening its impact on the local community. We applaud the success Arclin has achieved in our state and are proud to celebrate this expansion along with the 30 new jobs it will bring.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster

“It is always exciting to see an existing company grow and invest in our state and our people. We look forward to continuing to support Arclin as it furthers its legacy in one of our state’s rural communities, creating additional opportunities in Dillon County and beyond.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Dillon County Council is ecstatic about Arclin’s decision to expand their current operations in Dillon County. We believe an existing industry expansion is one of the highest compliments a county can receive simply because the company has experienced the ability to flourish in an atmosphere we’ve strived hard to create. In Arclin’s case, the company enjoys several successful locations in the USA, and Dillon County was favorably awarded the selection. We will remain vigilant in our efforts to constantly create conducive environments for Arclin and all of our existing industry to thrive in.”
-Dillon County Council Chairman Stevie Grice

Monday, August 11, 2025 Advanced Materials More than $60 million investment will create over 30 new jobsExpansions

Arclin is expanding its operations in Dillon County.

The company's more than $60 million investment will create over 30 new jobs.

Arclin is a materials science company.

The company is located at 219 Harllees Bridge Road in Dillon, S.C.

Individuals interested in joining the Arclin team should visit the company's careers page.

Press ReleaseOff

Eaton expands South Carolina footprint with new manufacturing facility in Union County

eeckert@sccommerce.com — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 23:03:10 +0000

Eaton expands South Carolina footprint with new manufacturing facility in Union County eeckert@sccomm… Tue, 02/11/2025 - 18:03

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Eaton, a global leader in intelligent power management technologies, today announced it is growing its South Carolina footprint with new operations in Union County. The company’s $340 million investment will create 700 new jobs and establish a new manufacturing facility for three-phase transformers, critical to the nation’s power grid and across industries.

A longtime South Carolina employer, Eaton provides intelligent power management solutions for the data center, utility, industrial, commercial, machine building, residential, aerospace and mobility markets. The company serves customers in more than 160 countries.

Eaton’s new Jonesville manufacturing site will be the company’s 11th facility in South Carolina and its third manufacturing facility for three-phase transformers in the U.S.

The company will acquire and retrofit the 861,000-square-foot facility located at 3805 Furman L. Fendley Highway in Jonesville.

The new operation will manufacture three-phase transformers, which support grid modernization and are critical in providing secure and reliable distribution of power in utility infrastructure and commercial applications.

Production and hiring in Jonesville are expected to begin in 2027. Currently, Eaton is hiring for existing positions at its other facilities in South Carolina, and individuals interested in joining the Eaton team should visit the company’s careers page.

The company will work closely with readySC and regional schools to support hiring and industry training.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $10 million Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to Union County to assist with the costs of building improvements.

QUOTES

“Electrical power demand is increasing dramatically, and our solutions are at the heart of energy systems everywhere, from the utility grid to industrials, data centers, buildings and more. Eaton is grateful for the strong collaboration and support in South Carolina, where we have a long history of manufacturing and innovation. Eaton is continuing to increase production and add jobs there and across the U.S. to support affordable, reliable and clean energy.”
-Eaton Electrical Sector Americas Region President Mike Yelton

“Eaton’s new operation in Union County, which will mean 700 new jobs for the local community, represents a major vote of confidence in South Carolina’s highly skilled, world-class workforce. This investment is a remarkable milestone for Eaton and Union County, and we celebrate the opportunities it will create throughout the state in the years ahead.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster

“Eaton’s announcement today underscores South Carolina’s commitment to supporting grid resiliency and modernization. We are grateful for our longstanding partnership with Eaton and are thrilled to see the company bring a new manufacturing operation to our state. We look forward to the transformative impact this announcement will have in Union County and beyond.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are pleased to welcome Eaton to Union County and acknowledge their investment and the new jobs opportunities they are introducing. Their considerable investment highlights the confidence global companies like Eaton have in Union County’s capability to address their needs. On behalf of the county council, county staff and our partners, we convey our congratulations and appreciation for Eaton’s commitment to Union County.”
-Union County Supervisor Phillip Russell

Tuesday, February 11, 2025 Advanced Manufacturing Advanced Materials High-Tech Eaton will invest $340 million and create 700 new jobsNew Business

Eaton is growing its South Carolina footprint with a new operation in Union County.

The company's $340 million investment will create 700 new jobs.

Eaton is a global leader in intelligent power management technologies.

The company’s newest facility in South Carolina will be located at 6802 Furman L. Fendley Highway in Jonesville, S.C.

Individuals interested in joining the Eaton team should visit the company's careers page.

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

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

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

S.C. Commerce Names New Global Business Development Director

stonnessen@trone.com — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 15:27:09 +0000

S.C. Commerce Names New Global Business Development Director Tuesday, April 9, 2024 stonnessen@trone.com Tue, 04/09/2024 - 11:27

On April 1, 2024, S.C. Commerce named Annie Caggiano the agency’s new Global Business Development director. Caggiano, who is on her second stint with S.C. Commerce and previously served as a business recruitment manager, brings nearly 20 years of economic development experience to the role.

“South Carolina has a proven track record of helping businesses achieve success from launch to legacy, and Annie Caggiano’s expertise and passion for creating opportunities for all South Carolinians through economic development will help ensure that S.C. Commerce’s industry recruitment track record remains strong,” said Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III.

Capital Concrete Co. grows South Carolina footprint with new operation in Fairfield County

stonnessen@trone.com — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 16:59:14 +0000

Capital Concrete Co. grows South Carolina footprint with new operation in Fairfield County stonnessen@trone.com Fri, 01/19/2024 - 11:59

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Capital Concrete Co., a construction materials supplier, today announced it is growing its South Carolina footprint with a new operation in Fairfield County. The company’s $8.25 million investment will create 17 new jobs.

Founded in 2006, Capital Concrete Co. has four, existing South Carolina locations providing ready-mix concrete products for all project types. The new plant, located at 355 Commerce Blvd. in Ridgeway, will be the company’s fifth location, giving it closer proximity to serve customers in Fairfield County.

Operations will be online in the third quarter of 2024. Individuals interested in joining the Capital Concrete Co. team should visit the company’s careers page.

QUOTES

“Capital Concrete Co. is excited to partner with Fairfield County and South Carolina for our continuing expansion plans in the Midlands. The site in the Walter Brown Industrial Park is well situated for future growth and will further job creation and investment in the region, and we look forward to being a good corporate citizen in this regard.”
-Capital Concrete Co. President Rusty Shealy

“Capital Concrete Co.’s continued success in South Carolina is a testament to the state’s positive economic climate. The company’s $8.25 million investment in Fairfield County will reinforce its commitment to building a solid South Carolina-based brand.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster

“We congratulate Capital Concrete Co. on its latest expansion and look forward to the development opportunities this new operation brings to Fairfield County.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

"I am excited that Capital Concrete chose to locate in Fairfield County! They’ve demonstrated to us that they want to be a good industrial partner in Fairfield County, and I look forward to watching the citizens benefiting from the new jobs created.”
-Fairfield County Council Chair Doug Pauley

"We enthusiastically celebrate Capital Concrete Co. establishing new operations in Fairfield County and choosing South Carolina as its home for the fifth time. This is another victory for our extraordinary region.”
-Central SC Alliance Chairman Matthew Shaffer

FIVE FAST FACTS

Capital Concrete Co. is growing its South Carolina footprint with a new operation in Fairfield County.
The company's $8.25 million investment will create 17 new jobs.
Capital Concrete Co. is a construction materials supplier..
The company will be located at 355 Commerce Blvd. in Ridgeway, S.C.
Individuals interested in joining the Capital Concrete Co. team should visit the company’s careers page.

Wednesday, January 10, 2024 Advanced Materials $8.25 million investment will create 17 new jobs New Business Press ReleaseOff