Location, workforce and market access were the key factors for Colgate-Palmolive (IW 500/73) in deciding to locate its new facility. The company announced today that it will invest $196 million to establish a new production facility in an existing 525,000 square foot building in Greenwood County, South Carolina.
“Greenwood County had a building that was a perfect fit for our needs, offers us a talented workforce and excellent market access,” saidMike Corbo, vice president, Global Supply Chain, for Colgate-Palmolive . “We appreciate all the support we’ve received from the state Department of Commerce and the South Carolina Coordinating Council for Economic Development, as well the Greenwood Partnership Alliance and Greenwood County.”
The plant is expected to begin operations in 2014 and will generate 300 new jobs.
At the new facility, the company will produce liquid hand soap for its Softsoap brand for the North American market as well as deodorant for its Mennen Speed Stick brand for both domestic and global markets.
“Manufacturing continues to be a real wealth creator in our state, and today’s announcement provides another boost to South Carolina’s manufacturing sector,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt. “The jobs created by Colgate-Palmolive’s new facility will help communities in Greenwood County remain sustainable for years to come.”
The Upstate Alliance and the South Carolina Ports Authority also were involved in the company’s recruitment to the state. The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved a Governor's Closing Fund grant and job development credits.
Since January 2011, South Carolina has recruited more than $9 billion in capital investment and more than 26,000 jobs in the manufacturing sector.
