Cure for the no-Roche blues

Miracle drugs roll off the assembly line at Roche Carolina’s plant east of Florence by the thousands every day. The 300,000-square foot facility’s lineup of high-tech drugs includes pills that fight cancer, hepatitis, the flu and even (in the recent past, anyway) unwanted fat.


Too bad there’s nothing for depression.

Local leaders could have used a dose or two that fateful day last month when they learned the international pharmaceutical conglomerate that owns Roche Carolina — the Swiss-based company known simply as Roche — planned to “divest” itself of its lone, but considerable, Pee Dee holding. In one fell, highly unexpected swoop, the gem of Florence’s industrial crown, the linchpin of a nascent “pharmaceutical cluster,” a star among local corporate citizens, was gone.

“It was like, ‘bam!’ and suddenly everything you thought you know about development here had changed,” said Dr. Fred Carter, president of Francis Marion University. “It was quite a blow.”

And yet, all is not lost. The news was, and is, disturbing; the potential of a Roche-less future unsettling.

But in the wake of it all there is some good news amidst the gloom. As it turns out, there may be a cure for the no-Roche blues.

Surprisingly — or perhaps not — the key ingredient in the potential cure is the Florence plant itself. A shiny, high-tech marvel of modern pharmaceutical manufacturing genius, it is, as it turns out, just too useful, too valuable, to disappear into the abyss of corporate profit taking.

No one understands this better than Florence’s Don Herriott, who managed the plant for Roche Carolina from 1996 until 2008 (the plant was his only responsibility until 2004; after then, he managed it along with six other Roche properties). Herriott, the key cog in the three-man task force — which includes Carter — appointed by state Sen. Hugh Leatherman of Florence to help look after community interests while Roche goes through its sale process, said during an extensive interview last week he’s upbeat about prospects for finding what local leaders would call “the right buyer.”

“There’s more reason to be optimistic than not,” Herriott said. “There won’t be a (new) company that’s a 100 percent fit, but there will be some that are close and when you find that you can make a deal. … Will this be easy? No. But is the idea viable? Absolutely.”

More evidence is that in the wake of the big, mid-November announcement, Herriott and company began fielding some calls. Interested buyers, most of whom were alerted by Herriott’s reach out calls to his industry contacts, were on the line wanting to know more.

“We had some inquiries right away,” said Herriott. “We told them, ‘Hold on. You’ve got to wait for Roche to get all of its ducks in a row, wait for what we imagine will be a formal bid process to begin. But we’ll keep you on the list.’ … And, frankly, we had a few other calls that, well, let’s just say we haven’t returned them yet.”

Amongst the latter were investment groups who would eye any distressed, or semi-distressed sale property with the hungry glare of an underfed vulture. To them the Florence plant would be a carcass to be picked over, something that could be bought for the sum of its parts (or, more to the point, the sums a buyer could get by selling off the parts). That might produce some fast cash, but Florence officials want no part of a dismemberment like that.

And, as Herriott executive sees it, neither would Roche.

Roche, theorizes Herriott, probably needs to keep making several of the drugs it makes here for at least the next two or three years. Xeloda, its breast and colo-rectal cancer drug, and Tamiflu, the well-known flu fighter, are too important — and particularly in the case of Xeloda, too profitable — for the company to risk a long-term shut down in the supply line.

“If Roche did something to create a shortage (of Xeloda) that would be a tremendous blow to its reputation and credibility,” Herriott said. “It’s just not something that you would do. And, it’s a $1 billion or so a year sales stream. You’re not going to turn your back on that. Even a short outage of production would be a tremendous blow, a tremendous risk, to Roche. So, there’s really not much risk of Roche wanting to find the quick money.”

Roche would prefer a buyer that would simply continue to operate the plant the way it is being operated. The new company would make the same drugs Roche is making, probably with most of the same people doing the work, and then sell them to Roche for public sale and distribution. This is the scenario Roche spokesman Pete Mazzaroni calls the “badge and logo change.” Roche employees would leave work one day wearing Roche insignia in its trademark blue, then show up the next (figuratively speaking) wearing another logo and color, belonging to a new company doing the same work.

This sort of arrangement, known as contract manufacturing, is a trend with considerable momentum in the pharmaceutical industry. Some estimates suggest that the contract manufacturing business, handled by generally unknown but often-massive companies like Dutch-based DSM, already is a $100 billion a year business. That’s a tenth or more of the global pharmaceutical total. DSM churns out an ever-changing array of pharmaceuticals at its 1.5-million square foot facility in Greenville, N.C.

Herriott said Roche’s decision to divest itself of a valuable asset like the Florence plant makes some sense as a part of a new, strategic direction toward more contract work. That Roche would be changing direction is no surprise to industry observers. The giant multi-national (it’s the third- or fourth-largest pharmaceutical firm in the world) has just gone through a regime change. CEO Dr. Severin Schwan took the reins of the Roche Group in 2008.

Serendipitously, Roche’s transitional need should act as an enticement to several kinds of buyers. A contract manufacturer looking to expand or upgrade its facility inventory could buy Roche’s Florence plant, secure in the knowledge that it had several years’ worth of demand already in place. Similarly, a drug company looking for more future capacity, could buy the plant and produce Roche products for a few years while finishing development of a new line or building sales volumes. Roche would need a minimum of two to three years to transfer its manufacturing to other sites, and might prefer not to move at all. The patents on Xeloda expire in 2013-14. The patents on Tamiflu expire in 2016.

The Florence plant is the only plant Roche plant registered to produce Capecitabine, the active ingredient in Xeloda, although Herriott said Roche had one or two other facilities that could handle it. Roche Carolina is the only U.S. plant registered to produce Oseltamivir Phosphate, the active ingredient in Tamiflu. That’s important for two reasons: Roche has no immediate option for producing that drug, and creating one won’t be easy. Roche’s next-best company-owned production options are overseas and the U.S. government is clear that it wants a secure, U.S. source of the anti-flu medicine, in case of an epidemic.

But while the current specialties of Roche’s Florence plant make it attractive to a buyer, it is technically attractive because of its flexibility. It was designed to minimize re-tooling costs and time. Mazzaroni said various design elements allow Roche to “‘re-plumb’ the plant in a much shorter period than it would take to re-configure a ‘dedicated’ manufacturing plant.”

Said Herriott, “It’s really a beautiful plant, especially to a chemical engineer.”

There also is room for additional expansion at the plant. While the plant appears enormous to the laymen’s eye, looming off in the distance from the public view on Old Marion Highway, it is not especially large for a pharmaceutical plant. And it is small in the overall world of biochemical manufactories. But the land that comes with the site, and the way the plant was sited on that land, would make expansion relatively easy (but not cheap). That’s probably more important to any chemical companies interested in entering the Florence plant sweepstakes. Herriott and others say a chemical buyer does not appear to be the best fit, but because machinery and techniques in the two industries are similar, that’s one additional possibility.

The are other positives to the campaign for a “good” sale. The factors that brought Roche to Florence in the first place — economical labor, location at a transportation nexus — are still in place. So are the tax incentive deals. Roche pays about $2.25 million in total property taxes per year through its fee-in-lieu-of arrangement, some 50 percent less than the amount stipulated in state tax codes. County administrator Richard Starks said all of Roche’s fee-in-lieu of agreements are transferable to a new buyer.

Finally, said Dr. Charles Gould of Florence-Darlington Tech, the third member of the task force, there is the almost too-good-to-be-true availability of Herriott to lead the local interest group. His knowledge of the industry, and specifically of Roche, is unparalleled, his contacts in the industry can, or already have, essentially created a worldwide network of “real estate agents” for the Florence plant, and he was available, having chosen to live in Florence after leaving Roche.

“He (Herriott) is the man, no doubt about it,” Gould said. “Dr. Carter and I know about as much about running pharmaceutical plants as we do about running Division I football programs.”

Neither Florence-Darlington Tech nor FMU have football teams of any kind.

For his part, Herriott admits he’s not exactly plowing new ground. During his Roche days, he sold two others plants: one in Mexico and one in Austria.

“Plants do change hands, so it’s not that big a deal in some ways,” he said. “There will be buyers. We just need to be selective.”

Perhaps Herriott’s considered advice will sound like immediate relief to shell-shocked Florentines in need of some positive Roche. For the time being, most are just grasping at straws and miracle cures.

At the annual Christmas party at Carter’s FMU presidential residence this week, a well-heeled partygoer on her way out wished the host a merry Christmas and extended her hopes for an improved new year.

“I’m just hoping that we’ll wake up one day and you’ll have made this whole Roche thing go away,” she said.

Carter smiled his famous smile and said, “I hope so, too.”

I.T.I. Hydraulik Announces New Facility in Williamsburg County

The South Carolina Department of Commerce, Williamsburg County, Georgetown County and the North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA) today announced that I.T.I. Hydraulik, a maker of hydraulic cylinders and power units for elevators, will establish its new facility in Williamsburg County, near the border with Georgetown County. The $1 million investment is expected to generate 30 new jobs.

“We are excited about opening our new facility in South Carolina. Demand for our products and services continues to increase, and this new facility will help us meet current demand and position us for future growth. Williamsburg County provided us with an excellent location and both Williamsburg and Georgetown counties have a workforce that will suit our needs. We truly appreciate all the support we have received from state and local officials,” said Jean-Jacques Fremeaux, general manager for I.T.I. Hydraulik.

“We are very pleased to open operations in South Carolina, which will allow us to bring our products to the growing Southeast U.S. market,” added I.T.I. Hydraulik President Jean Mailhot and Vice President Robert Mailhot.

I.T.I. Hydraulik USA will locate its new manufacturing facility in Williamsburg County, which will be the company’s first U.S. facility. The company plans to occupy the former Cannon Knits building located at 207 Seaboard Road in Andrews.

“South Carolina’s manufacturing sector continues to present great opportunities for our state. I.T.I. Hydraulik’s investment in Williamsburg County is a nice example of how an adaptive reuse and an existing skilled workforce can be successful drivers in attracting new investment. These assets, coupled with our state’s business-friendly climate, allow South Carolina to be highly competitive in today's economy,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

“We are certainly pleased that I.T.I. Hydraulik has selected our area for its American location. The company has made a significant investment into this project and thirty jobs will be created from this venture. We are delighted to have participated in this project with our neighboring county of Georgetown. Partnerships are created to benefit all parties involved and we are delighted about the possibilities. The collaboration of the SCDOC, NESA, Palmetto Economic Development and many other allies connected with this process has insured the project’s success,” said Stanley S. Pasley, Williamsburg County supervisor and chairman of Williamsburg County Council.

“Georgetown County is extremely happy I.T.I. Hydraulik has decided to locate in Andrews along the border of Williamsburg and Georgetown counties. Local residents will be excited to work for a quality Canadian manufacturer such as I.T.I. Hydraulik. Their selection demonstrates the fact that our area offers a world-class business climate to prospective industries,” said Georgetown County Council Chairman Johnny Morant.

“On behalf of the nine-county alliance that comprises NESA, we would certainly like to welcome I.T.I. Hydraulik into our region. This Canadian company is another example of the fine corporate neighbors that we are diligently striving to attract. Both the additional tax base and the employment opportunities are certainly appreciated. We are proud to have participated in this site selection which will benefit both Williamsburg County and Georgetown County as well as the entire NESA region,” said state Sen. John Yancey McGill, chairman of the NESA.

“We’re happy to see this project come to fruition,” said Jeff Ruble, director of business recruitment for the South Carolina Power Team. “We welcome them to South Carolina and wish them great success here.”

The company plans to begin hiring for the positions immediately. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact the Kingstree Workforce Center located at 530 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. at 843-354-7436, or the Georgetown Workforce Center located at 2704 Highmarket St. at 843-546-8581. Additionally, information on jobs will be posted at www.sctechjobs.com. The company will be hiring for machinist, welder and assembler positions.

Canada-based I.T.I. Hydraulik, founded in 1983, designs and manufactures high-quality cylinders and power units for use in elevator systems and offers superior technical support to its customers. The company also manufactures cylinders of all sizes for special applications, and is specialized in the repair of all kinds of hydraulic cylinders. The company serves clients throughout North America. For more information about the company, please visit www.itihydraulik.com.

Myrtle Beach man hopes to help I-73 become reality

SCNow.com
Originally Published: August 24, 2010
By Bob Juback

MYRTLE BEACH - Danny Isaac is the new head of the SCDOT Commission. He heads the board that helps dictate important road decisions all over South Carolina. And I-73 is the state's most important project.

Danny Isaac grew up in Horry County. He loves the Grand Strand and he’s committed to its growth. He believes much of that growth hinges on Interstate 73. However, the relatively-new chairman of the South Carolina Department of Transportation Commission is quick to make one thing clear.

“I-73 is not a Myrtle Beach road. It’s a South Carolina road. Tourism is the engine that powers the state and Myrtle Beach fuels that engine,” he said. “73 will do wonders for the state of South Carolina.”

Isaac sits at a conference table at A&I Fire and Restoration, the Myrtle Beach company he helped create in 1974. He talks about how he’s seen his hometown evolve over the decades and says roads have helped that process; roads like Highways 22 and 31. They make it easier for visitors to get around the Grand Strand once they get there but Isaac says they don’t help bring visitors to the Grand Strand. That’s why he says the state needs I-73.

“Myrtle Beach is the only major tourist destination in this country without interstate access. That hurts the area and the state, but it may hurt even more in the future because we’re getting more and more first-time visitors. Roads could determine if these folks return, so interstate access is critical to the success of not only the Grand Strand but for the entire state.”

Isaac moved into the chairman’s seat of the SCDOT commission in May, assuming the seat Marvin Stevenson of Marion resigned. The commission sets SCDOT policy and reviews its business. There are seven commissioners in all, representing the state’s six congressional districts and one at-large member appointed by the governor. Neither the at-large, the 5th district representative nor the 6th district commissioner lives in the Pee Dee, so that makes the Isaac the only local member. However, he heads the commission and when asked if that position could help move I-73 forward, he’s quick to answer.

“I think it does. It allows me to share with all the commissioners and with the rest of the state of South Carolina, the importance of I-73.”

Isaac says there are other projects that need addressing. Such as widening Highway 17 in Mount Pleasant, widening more stretches of I-95 to six lanes and updating worn-out bridges. He also points out how quickly and relatively-inexpensively the state recently renovated a big chunk of I-385 in the Upstate. He thinks if the state could make that happen, it can do the same with what he calls the number-one road priority: Interstate 73.

“I think if the state of South Carolina was committed to building I-73 unanimously and if we take a ‘we’ approach instead of ‘what we can do for our area versus your area’ approach and if we all worked together, I think conceivably we could have I-73 constructed,” he pauses for a couple of seconds, then continues. “In possibly five years.”

As with any project of this magnitude, money is the main issue and the main problem. Isaac thinks the state needs new, creative ways to come up with that money and he says it he’ll do whatever he can to help. Isaac feels the longer I-73 fails to exist, the further South Carolina and Myrtle Beach risk falling behind.

“And again,” he repeats. “I-73 should not be perceived as a Grand Strand project. I-73 is a project for the state of South Carolina.”

I-95 interchange next step for I-73 project

SCNow.com
August 27, 2010
By Aisha Khan

U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, members of the I-73 Association and North Eastern Strategic Alliance discussed the impact of Interstate 73 on the state during a press conference Friday.

U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, members of the I-73 Association and North Eastern Strategic Alliance discussed the impact of Interstate 73 on the state during a press conference Friday.

The interstate, from Myrtle Beach to Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., could take at least 10 years to complete. It would cross six states — Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia and the Carolinas — and traverse 80 miles in four South Carolina counties: Marlboro, Dillon, Marion and Horry at a cost of $2 billion.

It will be the first interstate link to Myrtle Beach, the heart of the state’s $16 billion tourism industry.

A study released in January 2009 suggested that building the South Carolina leg of I-73 could create thousands of jobs and generate more than $1 billion in household income during the five-year construction.

“It’s going to cost billions of dollars,” said Graham during the conference at Magnolia’s in Myrtle Beach, “but when you are talking about stimulating the economy and creating jobs I can’t think of a better use of taxpayer dollars than to construct this new interstate. This is what the federal government is supposed to do.”

News13 asked Graham what he’d say to those who are skeptical about the project and doubt it will come to be.

“We are actually making some progress,” he said. “I thought it was gonna die about three years ago because we couldn’t agree on that route. Now we’ve got a route from beginning to end, the federal government has appropriated $83 million and the state government has appropriated $75 million.”

The next big step is to build an interchange by Interstate 95 and U.S. 501 in Dillon County, Graham said.

“The holdup is that this is a multi-million dollar project and the highway reauthorization bill comes up next year. Congress will set priorities to the nation as to what highways will be funded,” he said, “so anything we can do this year in terms of infrastructure development in South Carolina allows me to make the case to federal government that you should build this road because the states are already helping in building the infrastructure.”

Graham said the state has created an account to buy the needed right of ways and has determined a route to get a better sense of where the road would run and where it would end.
He said if the state can construct an interchange between I-95 and U.S. 501 — a key to building the corridor in South Carolina — it would need $150 million, hence making a better case for him to present to the federal government.

Half of the money is available with the state at $75 million to which another $15 million would be need to added every year over the next five-year period, he said.

“The state has a $3 trillion budget. We are going to reauthorize money next year to build highways,” Graham said. “I think it’s an easy sell. I think most taxpayers are frustrated because they don’t see a value for their dollars.”

Notices for right-of-way acquisitions are being sent to landowners in the section around the first interchange at I-95.

“Ordinary citizens are starting to see that it is a reality because they’re getting condemnation notices from the department saying that we need your land to build this road,” said state Rep. Doug Jennings of Bennettsville, who serves a treasurer of the National I-73/74 Association. “Of course that’s a very personal thing when the government takes your land, but there is also a very fair law out there on the books that make sure that the landowners get compensation for their property.”

Graham said state Rep. Allen Clemmons of Myrtle Beach, who serves as chairman of the National I-73/74 Association, will be taking the I-73 issue to a road rally Sept. 30 in Washington, D.C., to which every legislative delegation member from the I-73 states is invited.

“The decision has been made to begin the construction at I-95 which is four miles north of the existing interchange at S.C. 38 and Dillon County,” Jennings said. “Certainly, in the next two to three years, you can see dirt moving and you can see actual construction going on.”

The National I-73/74 Corridor Association is a membership organization committed to enhancing the economic success and quality of life within the six-state corridor by pursuing the planning, permitting, funding, construction and maintenance of I-73/74 — highways of regional and national significance that will facilitate interstate commerce, reduce congestion and improve safety in an environmentally sound manner.

For more information about I-73, visit www.I73.com or call (866) 924-7374.

With last bit of funding, work on long-sought road could begin in 2011

SCNow.com
By Carlton Purvis
August 22, 2010

A new phase in the Interstate 73 project could start as early as next year if supporters of the project can get the remaining funding needed to start it.

A new phase in the Interstate 73 project could start as early as next year if supporters of the project can get the remaining funding needed to start it.

Ground could be broken for the interchange with Interstate 95 in Dillon County as early as 2011 if the project can get a last bit of funding, said 1st Congressional District Commissioner Danny Isaac, who is the liaison between supporters of the project and the S.C. Department of Transportation.

The total cost of the interchange — half of which is already funded — is about $150 million, Isaac said.“Its just all about the funding,” he said. “We need that other $75 million.”

The first part of the funding came from an earmark, followed by state infrastructure grant money and, more recently, a $10 million TIGER grant. Isaac said a TIGER 2 grant has been applied for in an effort to obtain some of the final funding for the project.

The interstate, from Myrtle Beach to Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., could take at least 10 years to complete. It would cross six states — Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia and the Carolinas — and traverse 80 miles in four South Carolina counties: Marlboro, Dillon, Marion and Horry.

The complete I-73 project, which includes road improvement from the North Carolina state line to Horry County, will span 44 miles and is expected to affect 81 homes and 71 businesses.It also would be the first interstate link to Myrtle Beach, the heart of the state’s $16 bil-lion tourism industry.

In addition, I-73 is expected to add more than $1 billion to the area’s economy, create thousands of construction jobs and cut hurricane evacuation times from the Grand Strand by 11 to 15 hours.

Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Brad Dean, one of the S.C. I-73 Association officers, said I-73 has been discussed for almost 30 years, but rela-tively a small amount of progress has been made until recent years.

“While I-73 has been on the to-do list for a long time, it had not been a high priority for South Carolina in large part due to the perceived lack of need,” Dean said.

Changes in tourism in the Grand Strand and the economic climate of the Pee Dee, as well as work by state Sen. Hugh Leatherman of Florence and other officials to help get national attention for the project have helped moveit forward.

“As the Myrtle Beach area has grown to a national tourism destination that welcomes more than 14 million visitors a year, we see the need to enhance infrastructure to accom-modate the growing number of visitors,” Dean said.

For the Pee Dee, the interchange connects the area to the rest of the region in a way officials hope will make industries take a second look.“The economic landscape of the Pee Dee over that last two or three years has decreased for certain areas that lack infrastructure. I-73 may be an economic lifeline. It may be the only hope of bringing higher paying jobs and new industries to certain areas,” Dean said.

“Marion County has had some recent success in attracting new businesses to the area. Imagine the potential if they had interstate access.”

Isaac said getting the interchange started will help show enough progress on the I-73 project to get major funding for the remainder of it.

Isaac and Dean agree that connecting I-73 to a major interstate will give a boost to the project and the state.

“I think the day they announce they are starting to break ground you will see national interest moving to the area. Tourism is really what’s driving the state of South Carolina right now and this interstate will just fuel that engine,” Isaac said.

“We have made great progress, but moving forward on the interchange project will help us secure more federal funds and create jobs which our state desperately needs,” state Rep. Alan Clemmons of Myrtle Beach, who serves as chairman of the National I-73/74 Corridor Association, said in a press release last year about the project.

The National I-73/74 Corridor Association bills itself as a membership organization committed to enhancing the economic success and quality of life within the six-state corridor by pursuing the planning, permitting, funding, construction and maintenance of I-73/74 — highways of regional and national significance that will facilitate interstate commerce, reduce congestion and improve safety in an environmentally sound manner.

For more information about I-73, visit www.I73.com or call (866) 924-7374.

Mohawk Industries Inc. Announces Expansion in Marlboro County

COLUMBIA, S.C. – May 27, 2010 – The South Carolina Department of Commerce, Marlboro County and the North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA) today announced that Mohawk Industries Inc. will expand its manufacturing facility in Marlboro County. The $60 million investment is expected to generate a significant number of additional positions over the next two years.

“We have been very pleased with the results of the Oak River North Extrusion and Yarn operations,” said Larry Perugini, Vice President – Yarn and Extrusion Manufacturing, Mohawk Industries. “The people at the facility have been key contributors to our company’s success, and we are grateful for their good work and dedication.”

Perugini added that the site continues to play a significant role in Mohawk’s manufacturing. “As Mohawk’s needs for fiber and yarn evolve with changes in consumer demand, we have to analyze our assets and invest at locations that can help us fulfill our customer’s preferences,” Perugini said.

Mohawk Industries opened the current Bennettsville facility in 2006, but has had yarn manufacturing operations in the area for more than 50 years. The company will add 87,500 square feet of manufacturing space to the facility, along with additional yarn conversion equipment.

“Mohawk Industries has been an important part of the Pee Dee area business community for more than five decades. This announcement indicates yet again that our state’s business-friendly climate and skilled workforce are working to attract new investment and foster growth among our existing industries. Additionally, Mohawk’s decision to expand with this significant investment further strengthens the company’s commitment to the local community. We congratulate Mohawk Industries and look forward to its continued growth in Marlboro County,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

Mohawk previously expanded Oak River North facility in 2008 and currently employs more than 400 individuals at the location.

“We are so pleased to welcome this second expansion in two years of Mohawk Industries in Marlboro County. This most recent expansion is a testament to the strong work ethic and productivity of the people of Marlboro County and of this region. We would like to thank Mohawk for continuing to create jobs in Marlboro County and for being such a strong corporate citizen,” said state Sen. J. Yancey McGill, chairman of NESA.

“Economic development, in addition to recruiting new business, is the sustaining of existing business. I am very grateful for this expansion by Mohawk as it is needed in our community. We congratulate and thank Mohawk Industries on its new investment. This type of dedication and commitment is demonstrative of the type of corporate citizen that Mohawk exemplifies,” said state Sen. Gerald Malloy.

“We are thrilled with Mohawk’s decision, and our legislative delegation was delighted to work on this project with local officials and state officials,” said state Rep. Doug Jennings, chairman of the Marlboro County Legislative Delegation. “The announcement by Mohawk shows confidence in Marlboro County and the state of South Carolina and we are excited that they will be expanding their facilities and creating new jobs at a time when they are critically needed.”

“Council is pleased that Mohawk has chosen Marlboro County for their extrusion expansion project. We thank Mr. Larry Perugini of Mohawk for his input in choosing Marlboro. Mr. Perugini worked here for a number of years and we appreciate his confidence in our county. This second expansion in just a few years, along with the new jobs, demonstrates the solid partnership between Mohawk Industries and the citizens of Marlboro County,” said Marlboro County Council Chairwoman Dr. Carolyn Prince.

“This expansion is another affirmation by one of our industrial partners that Marlboro County is the right place to do business,” said F. S. “Butch” Mills Jr., Executive Director of Marlboro County Economic Development Partnership. “Thanks to South Carolina Department of Commerce, the North Eastern Strategic Alliance, Marlboro County Council and the Partnership Board for their collaborative work in assisting Mohawk in their desire to expand in Marlboro County and South Carolina.”

For all open positions, please visit www.mohawkjobs.com to apply, or contact the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce in Bennettsville at 843-479-4081.

About Mohawk Industries Inc.
Mohawk is a leading supplier of flooring for both residential and commercial applications. Mohawk offers a complete selection of carpet, ceramic tile, laminate, wood, stone, vinyl, and rugs. These products are marketed under the premier brands in the industry, which include Mohawk, Karastan, Ralph Lauren, Lees, Bigelow, Dal-Tile, American Olean, Unilin and Quick Step. Mohawk's unique merchandising and marketing assist our customers in creating the consumers' dream. Mohawk provides a premium level of service with its own trucking fleet and over 250 local distribution locations.

The Charleston Pie Man LLC Announces New Facilities in Georgetown County

The Charleston Pie Man LLC Announces New Facilities in Georgetown County
Investment expected to create 80 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. – April 14, 2010 – The South Carolina Department of Commerce and Georgetown County today announced that The Charleston Pie Man LLC will locate its new operation in Georgetown County. The $500,000 investment is expected to generate 80 new jobs.

“Demand for the pies has grown quickly, and I expect it to continue to grow as we enter more markets. This new facility will allow us to meet demand and get our pies to our customers wherever they might be. This new manufacturing operation represents an important first step for us, and we look forward to growing here. We appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Toby Simmons, owner and founder of The Charleston Pie Man.

The Charleston Pie Man will open a new pie manufacturing operation in Georgetown County to assemble and prepare its pies. The company has leased two facilities in the area, one in Pawleys Island and the other in Georgetown. The company plans to build on its regional pie business and enter markets all across the U.S.

“Small businesses are a fundamental driver of employment opportunities for South Carolinians and citizens across the nation. The success of The Charleston Pie Man shows how a kitchen concept can be turned into a thriving business. The company’s growth from a one-man operation into a manufacturing business that will employ dozens of people and have a broad market reach demonstrates that South Carolina provides the foundation fundamental to growing any business. Congratulations to Toby Simmons and The Charleston Pie Man and best wishes for continued success,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

“We are delighted The Charleston Pie Man has created its home in Georgetown County with bakery locations in both Pawleys Island and Georgetown,” said Georgetown County Council Chairman Johnny Morant. “We are excited they will occupy buildings in multiple locations within our county to provide job opportunities for residents to find a quality job with a growing company. The Charleston Pie Man is an entrepreneurial business with rapid growth potential so it is a pleasure to welcome them to the Georgetown County business community.”

The Charleston Pie Man is in the process of hiring for the positions now. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact the Georgetown Workforce Center at 843-546-8581 or the company at 843-314-3570, or by fax at 843-314-3571.

The Charleston Pie Man is the creation of Toby Simmons, who went from making his pies at home and selling them at local farmers markets to opening a bakery in Charleston. Even as his success has grown, Simmons has continued to use the freshest ingredients to make his pies. For more information about the company, please visit www.thecharlestonpieman.com.

Company opens Lake City plant, talks with Boeing

By Charles Tomlinson | Lake City News & Post Editor
Published: April 6, 2010
Updated: April 7, 2010


LAKE CITY — Jim Stike, president and CEO of Materials Innovation Technologies, said South Carolina “gets it” when it comes to bringing startup companies into the state.

During the company’s grand opening for its MIT-RCF facility, in Lake City, S.C. Sen. Yancey McGill, D-Kingstree, thanked the company leaders for the “kind gift” to the community.

The Fletcher, N.C.-based company plans for 120 people to be employed within five years at the site, which will reclaim carbon fiber for automotive and aerospace parts at the Godley Morris Commerce Center.

McGill also put some pressure on Gov. Mark Sanford, who also spoke at Tuesday’s ceremony.

“You might make a private call to Boeing and tell them there’s a little business in Lake City,” McGill said to laughter from the audience.

Later, Stike said, “If you’re not busy Friday afternoon, I have a meeting with Boeing in Charleston,” and the audience laughed as he personally invited McGill.

Stike said after the ceremony that he couldn’t elaborate on his company’s dealings with Boeing, which will build its new 787 Dreamliner in a new North Charleston facility.

“We’re working with them, and we’ll see how that goes,” he said.

MIT-RCF will use a patented process to make parts and also will reclaim carbon fiber out of scrap from Boeing jets, Corvettes or the U.S. Department of Defense, among other sources, Stike told the audience.

“(There’s a) positive environmental impact, so how could you not win when you hit on all of those key things?” Stike said.

The governor said the company’s practice of using “what we have” is “not only good for the environment, but it’s good for people’s pocketbooks, as well.”

Florence County Council Chairman K.G. “Rusty” Smith said the company’s patented process could “revolutionize” the automotive and aerospace industries. MIT-RCF will take materials “destined for the landfill” and make something stronger, safer and lighter than the parts they will replace, he said.

Stewart McKenzie, Midlands Zone manager of SC Launch, honored Smith on Tuesday for contributions to the area’s “knowledge economy,” which includes such high-tech industries as MIT-RCF as well as life sciences and alternative energy. SC Launch is a collaboration among the South Carolina Research Authority, better known as SCRA, and South Carolina’s university research foundations.

Materials Innovations Technologies looked at nine buildings in South Carolina, including some in the Upstate, Stike said. The first building the company examined was the Lake City facility, he said.

In October, Florence County Council approved incentive and lease agreements for the company. The county also has allocated $548,333 for the upfit of the MIT-RCF building.

Two weeks after council’s vote, Boeing announced plans for its South Carolina facility.

“I like to say Boeing was waiting to see where we were going to put our facilities,” he said to more laughter from the crowd. Although his comment was humorous, Stike said he wasn’t totally joking, because small companies historically have led the country out of recessions.

“That’s what we’re trying to do here in Lake City and in the future,” he said.

Materials Innovation Technologies has been moving equipment daily to the Lake City site and should be able to begin its cutting process soon, Stike said. He hopes the facility will be fully operational by August or September, he said.

The company, which has 20 employees, has hired a seven-person starting staff in Lake City, he said. It also has put 15 people through 30 hours of classroom training at Florence-Darlington Technical College’s Lake City site and will place additional employees as the necessary equipment arrives, he said.

Stike told the story of one applicant who had recently lost his job and, as a result, couldn’t adopt an 8-year-old girl in foster care. MIT-RCF hired the man, however, and wrote a letter to the adoption agency, Stike said. Now, the adoption is going through.

“Thousands of jobs are great,” but one job also can make a big difference, Stike said.

Sanford visits Marion County to discuss economy

By Naeem McFadden | Marion Star & Mullins Enterprise Reporter
Published: April 6, 2010
Updated: April 7, 2010

MARION — Gov. Mark Sanford, spending most of his Tuesday traveling through the Pee Dee, made a stop in Marion County to discuss the economy with Marion County Economic Development Commission Executive Director Rodney Berry.

Marion County shared the state’s highest unemployment rate in January at 24.3 percent.

Sanford said Marion County‘s unemployment rates are tough numbers, making jobs and investments much more important.

Sanford’s visit was basically a one-on-one discussion in regard to existing investments in the area and what can be done at the state level to help support the Pee Dee, Berry said.

“The state has been so supportive of our efforts and we’re all encourage by his visit,” Berry said.

On Feb. 25, ACAS Landing Gear Services announced a $5 million investment in Marion County that’s expected to create 300 jobs during the next five years.

Several months before that announcement, Sopakco, which has been long established in Mullins, announced the opening of a second Mullins facility. The $10 million investment is expected to provide jobs for 50 people.

On Sept. 29, 2009,Supremes LLC announced a $6 million investment in Marion County for a facility to manufacture disposable baby diapers and create 262 jobs.

“It’s been a tremendous team effort,” Berry said of the turnaround. “We started at the ground level and felt we needed to change attitudes here in Marion County, and our local folk have bought into that.”

Sanford said South Carolina’s labor force growth could be an important factor in the long run when it comes to job creation.

With the influx of new residents, new industries are finding a good place to do business in the state, he said.

Future growth prospects on the job front are another indicator for improvement, the governor said.

McCall Farms Inc. Announces Expansion in Florence County

COLUMBIA, S.C. – March 17, 2010 – The South Carolina Department of Commerce and Florence County Economic Development Partnership today announced that McCall Farms Inc. will expand its operations in Florence County. The $9 million investment is expected to generate 65 new jobs.

“McCall Farms has been a part of South Carolina for generations and we are pleased to significantly grow our operations in Florence County. South Carolina has long provided us with an excellent business environment and solid labor force. This expansion will help us meet increasing demand for our products and grow market share. We appreciate all the support we have received from state and local officials,” said Marion G. Swink, co-president of McCall Farms.

McCall Farms will expand its operations in Florence County by building an additional 150,000-square-foot building on its current campus. The company has recently seen strong growth through the purchase of canneries in Georgia and South Carolina.

“McCall continues to provide the very best of South Carolina’s homegrown foods to consumers around the country. Their growth in our state is a positive indication that South Carolina’s dedicated workforce and business-friendly climate are providing the solid-footing small businesses and family-owned operations, like McCall Farms, need to be successful in today’s competitive environment and their food taste great too. We congratulate McCall Farms on their growth and wish them continued success in the years to come,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

“The McCall Farms announcement for further expansion builds upon the strong economic foundation they have harvested right here in the Pee Dee. The purchase of Glory Foods will create an additional 65 jobs for our people, while making an additional investment into our local economy. Since 2007, this great corporate citizen has grown and created nearly 100 new jobs. I look forward to working with the great folks of McCall Farms in the future, as we make Florence County a better place to work, live and call home,” said state Senator Hugh K. Leatherman.

Florence County Council Chairman K.G. “Rusty” Smith said, “McCall Farms has deep roots set in the soil of our area. This expansion is a true testament to their belief in hard work, strong work ethics and exceptional products. They have been able to creatively and effectively market and grow this company and now their products are sold across the country every day.”

“McCall Farms has been and continues to be an important part of our economic environment in the county and the entire Pee Dee. This expansion and the new jobs it will create come at an opportune time for the area. We certainly congratulate them on their announcement and their expansion,” stated Dr. Charles Gould, president of Florence Darlington Technical College and chairman of the FCEDP.

The company expects to begin hiring for the new positions in within 18 months.

McCall Farms has been growing food for more than 170 years. The company farms and cans tomatoes, okra, corn, squash, beans, peas, peaches, peanuts, greens and more. Its products are sold throughout the Southeast. The produce is grown on McCall's 2,000-acre South Carolina farm; it also contracts with farmers in Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas for another 3,000 acres. The company manufactures about 40 different products under the Margaret Holmes and Miss Millie brands, as well as private-label and foodservice products. For more information, please visit www.mccallfarms.com.

ACAS Landing Gear Services Announces New Facility in Marion County

COLUMBIA, S.C. – February 25, 2010 – The South Carolina Department of Commerce, Marion County and North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA) today announced that ACAS Landing Gear Services, a full-service repair and overhaul company with extensive capabilities to service a variety of aircraft, will open new operations in Marion County. The $5 million investment is expected to generate 300 new jobs over the next five years.

“Our company continues to see its customer base expand as we grow our market share. The facility in Marion County will allow us to meet increasing customer demand for our services. South Carolina provides an excellent fit for us, with a positive business environment and a top-notch workforce. We look forward to opening our new operations there and appreciate all the support from state and local officials,” said Gary Partin, CEO of ACAS Landing Gear Services.

ACAS’s new facility, located in the former Sara Lee building in Marion, will focus on re-manufacturing landing gear and landing gear components. ACAS currently services the Boeing 707, 727, 737, 747, 757, 767 and 777. The company also provides aircraft capabilities for Airbus and an array of military and commercial aircraft.

“ACAS’s decision to make a substantial capital and jobs investment in our state is a telling reminder of South Carolina’s growing role as a hub for the aerospace industry. It’s also an indication that we’re making significant progress toward bettering our state’s business climate and making us more competitive by lowering taxes, easing regulatory burdens, and keeping South Carolina a right-to-work state. I’d applaud the hard-working team at Commerce and the local economic developers for their efforts in bringing job opportunities to Marion County,” said Gov. Mark Sanford.

South Carolina is home to more than 100 aerospace-related companies investing billions of dollars in the state and operating in 23 of South Carolina’s 46 counties. These companies employ over 16,000 South Carolinians. Last fall, Boeing announced it will locate the company’s second final assembly facility to support the 787 Dreamliner program in North Charleston. Once completed, the facility will be one of three final assembly facilities for wide-body jets in the world.

“Today’s announcement is another indication that positive things are happening in Marion County. ACAS’s investment in Marion County is an adaptive reuse of an existing structure that will provide the company with an unbelievably competitive location and a skilled workforce. This is the second large jobs announcement in Marion County in just a few months, which proves that hard work and enthusiasm can go a long way and I would thank County Council Chairman John Atkinson and Rodney Berry for their efforts to make a real difference in Marion County. We welcome ACAS to South Carolina and look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with them in the years ahead,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

“The most important thing I can do this legislative session is work with our local and state leadership teams to bring jobs to our citizens. ACAS’s announcement of their new operations in Marion County is another example of what can happen when everyone works together to attain a common goal - putting our workforce back to work,” said Senator Kent Williams (S.C. Senate District 30).

“I want to thank Gov. Sanford, the Dept. of Commerce, Rodney Berry and everyone else that has helped make this possible. Marion County has a great workforce that is eager to get back to work. This is very good news,” said Rep. Jim Battle (S.C. House District 57).

“Teamwork was the prevailing dynamic that won this project and it was performed firing on all cylinders by all entities. The announcement by ACAS substantiates that Marion County is back in the game competing for high quality skilled jobs. We welcome and embrace ACAS with a full commitment of continual support,” said Rodney Berry, executive director of the Marion County Economic Development Commission.

“We are delighted to usher in yet another outstanding company to the NESA Region,” said state Sen. J. Yancey McGill, chairman of NESA. “The announcement of ACAS will provide much needed jobs and capital investment for Marion County and is a further testament to the business-friendly environment of the NESA Region, the availability of a skilled workforce, and the dedication of this region to economic development.”

“When we worked to recruit Boeing’s second final assembly facility for the 787 to Charleston, we were confident that it would lead to a growth in aviation investments throughout the state and to see the first announcement come to the Pee Dee region is especially exciting. ACAS’s announcement also reinforces that companies and the aviation industry can be successful and flourish anywhere in our state,” said Sen. Hugh Leatherman, chairman Senate Finance Committee.

The company plans to begin hiring for available positions in March. Individuals interested in job opportunities are encouraged to contact the Marion One-Stop Workforce Center at: 843.423.8288 or visit their offices in Marion at 100 Northeast Court Street. The company will also join Marion County and state officials in an announcement ceremony in mid-March.

ACAS Landing Gear Services is a full service repair and overhaul facility with an extensive inventory and a wide range of capabilities. ACAS provides fast turnaround times and cost-effective repairs for more than 5,000 to over 20,000 types of hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical and electronic aircraft accessories. For more information about the company, visit www.acas.aero.

Solar Energy Initiatives Inc. Brings Jobs and the Solar Economy to South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. – February 11, 2010 – Solar Energy Initiatives Inc., with operating divisions in solar project development, distribution and workforce training, today made an announcement with the State of South Carolina and the North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA) to drive job creation and economic development through solar energy.

Solar Energy Initiatives will locate new facilities in Williamsburg County, creating a solar technology campus. The goal is to leverage the Port of Charleston and develop a showcase for solar technology, training, distribution and logistics, making Williamsburg County the solar capital of the East Coast.

“We are very excited about our announcement with the State of South Carolina and the next stage of growth for Solar Energy Initiatives. We plan on creating a solar showcase for South Carolina, aiding the State’s effort to develop the jobs and businesses linked to the fast-growing solar economy. This also focuses our Renew the Nation campaign at the regional level, continuing our mission of economic development for small businesses in the construction trades,” said Chief Executive Officer David Fann. “We expect Renew South Carolina to generate over 200 jobs over the next few years, laying the groundwork for hundreds more as the State establishes itself in the solar marketplace.”

“I am thrilled that Solar Energy Initiatives Inc. has made the decision to locate in the NESA Region of South Carolina. The decision to locate in Williamsburg County is a testament to the strong work ethic and innovative nature of the people of this region and the belief that South Carolina is the place to be for this rapidly expanding industry,” said Senator Yancey McGill, chairman of the NESA executive committee.

NESA is a regional economic development organization that serves nine-counties in Northeast South Carolina including: Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Marion, Marlboro and Williamsburg.

With over 200,000 square feet of building space, the company plans on starting a solar academy to train new solar technicians and a distribution center for solar products. The location will also serve as a demonstration center for all types of solar installations including solar thermal (hot water) and solar photovoltaic rooftop and ground-mount systems. Finally, the plan includes co-locating major manufacturers of solar products used in residential and commercial applications. Solar Energy Initiatives is actively working with its supply chain to make this possible.

“South Carolina’s business-friendly climate, skilled workforce and strong market access continues to attract new opportunity to our state, and today’s announcement is another indication that our state has laid the groundwork necessary to attract investment from innovative and emerging industries,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

The first phase of the project involves the configuration of the 6,000 square-foot solar academy training center. Construction is expected to begin this spring with a ground-breaking ceremony to be announced at a future date.

For more information on Renew South Carolina, please contact: southcarolina@solarenergy.com.

About Solar Energy Initiatives Inc.
Solar Energy Initiatives Inc. (OTCBB: SNRY), d-b-a SNRY Solar, is a diversified provider of solar solutions with three principal operating groups focused on large-scale projects, solar education and distribution of solar products. The Project Services Group (PSG) is a developer and manager of municipal and commercial scale solar projects. The Solar Eos Group (SEG) is dedicated to the education and continuous improvement of solar energy trade professionals. The Integrated Supply Group (ISG) is a wholesale distributor of branded photovoltaic and thermal (water heating) systems selling via an exclusive network of dealers throughout the United States and the Caribbean.

While Solar Energy Initiatives Inc. is not a solar franchise or a manufacturer like Applied Materials, First Solar, Kyocera or Sanyo, the company does have distribution agreements with leading solar manufacturing companies like Canadian Solar, BP Solar, GE Solar, Suntech and others.

Through its diversified portfolio of solar businesses, the SNRY Solar is committed to restoring the nation’s economy through a grassroots campaign called ‘Renew the Nation’. Renew the Nation brings together a broad alliance of public and private sector interests focused on workforce development, job creation and economic growth through solar energy. For more information please visit www.solarenergy.com.

Bennettsville Printing Announces New Operations in Marlboro County

COLUMBIA, S.C. – January 29, 2010 – The South Carolina Department of Commerce, Marlboro County, Marlboro County Economic Development Partnership and NESA today announced that Bennettsville Printing will locate its new operations in Marlboro County. The more than $3 million investment is expected to generate 40 new jobs over the next three years.

“This new facility will allow us to meet increasing customer demand for our products, as well as move us closer to our suppliers. We are pleased to locate our facility in Bennettsville. We’re sure that Marlboro County is the perfect fit for our company and has an excellent business environment and strong workforce. We appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Victor Winogradow, owner, president and CEO of Bennettsville Printing.

Winogradow also owns Decorative Screen Printings, a Connecticut-based textile printing firm. Bennettsville Screen Printing was purchased by Bennettsville Holdings LLC and is in the process of locating its manufacturing operation in Bennettsville. The new facility will operate as Bennettsville Printing and expects operations to begin operations this month.

“Bennettsville Printing’s decision to locate a new facility in Marlboro County is a positive indication that our business-friendly climate, exceptional market access and strong workforce are working to attract new investment to both our rural and urban areas. Marlboro County is uniquely positioned to benefit from this investment because this will not only generate 40 new jobs, but it will also benefit local small business as new jobs and investment come into the community. We welcome the company to Bennettsville and look forward to a long and mutually-beneficial relationship with them in the years ahead,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

“Marlboro County applauds Bennettsville Printing’s decision to invest in the county. Their new facility will add 40 much-needed jobs. Members of County Council are well-pleased that they were able to provide a grant for logistical related expenses to Bennettsville Printing. This grant not only facilitated the creation of new jobs, but also preserved the existing 43 jobs at the facility. We anticipate a long and mutually beneficial relationship,” said Marlboro County Chairwoman Carolyn A. Prince. “This new industry is one outcome of the enhanced relationship between the S.C. Department of Commerce, NESA, the county’s Department of Economic Development and county council. It is our perception that new industries and jobs are forthcoming for Marlboro County as the economy recovers and the partnership strengthens.”

“NESA, Marlboro County and the Marlboro County Economic Development Partnership celebrate Victor Winogradow’s decision to locate his new operations here. We recognize the decision to begin operations here carried great economic consequences. With the financial support of both the state of South Carolina and the County of Marlboro, we have limited those risks to an acceptable level. We believe this decision will benefit both our community and his company equally. Welcome to our new neighbors,” said Marlboro County Economic Development Partnership Executive Director F. S. Butch Mills Jr.

“On behalf of the North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA), I would like to thank Bennettsville Printing for expanding in Marlboro County. The preservation of 43 jobs and the creation of 40 new jobs will make a tremendous difference in the region. We laud today’s announcement and look forward to future expansions as Bennettsville Printing grows and is prosperous in Marlboro County,” said state Sen. Yancey McGill, chairman of NESA.

The company expects to begin hiring for the positions within the next six to nine months. At that time, anyone interested in positions should contact the Marlboro County One-Stop Workforce Center at 843-479-4081.