$70 million investment will create 45 new jobs
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Red Metals, a next-generation copper manufacturer, today announced it is establishing its first copper manufacturing operation in Charleston County. The company’s $70 million investment is expected to create at least 45 new jobs.
Copper is a critical input for electrical infrastructure, data centers, electrification, advanced manufacturing and defense applications. S&P Global projects global copper demand will nearly double by 2035, driven by electrification, renewable energy, electric vehicles and digital infrastructure.
Red Metals is building a new domestic supply chain for copper products by converting copper raw materials directly into finished goods through an integrated refining and manufacturing process. The company’s Charleston County facility will serve as its first production operation.
Located at 4500 Leeds Ave. in North Charleston, the company’s 42,000-square-foot facility will manufacture high-conductivity copper rod used in wire, cable and other electrical applications. The operation is designed to strengthen domestic manufacturing capacity and deliver essential copper products with shorter lead times and reduced supply chain complexity.
Operations are expected to come online in the fourth quarter of 2026. Engineers, operators and other entrepreneurial builders interested in joining the Red Metals team should visit redmetals.com to learn more.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.
“Red Metals is building a modern domestic supply of copper products at a time when reliable industrial infrastructure has never been more critical. Charleston County gives us the foundation to scale a new model for copper refining and manufacturing, in close proximity to both the sources of supply and the industries that depend on it. We’re excited to invest in the region, create high-quality jobs and help support the next generation of American manufacturing, energy and defense.”
-Red Metals Founder and CEO Jackson Switzer
“We are proud to welcome Red Metals to South Carolina and further strengthen our state’s manufacturing industry. With the addition of 45 jobs in Charleston County, this investment marks another win for our state and our workforce.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster
“Congratulations to Red Metals on establishing its first operations in Charleston County. The company’s investment of $70 million reflects the strength of South Carolina’s economy and workforce.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“Red Metals’ decision to bring its copper manufacturing to Charleston County delivers a significant advantage for several of our key industries that rely on this essential material. Aside from strengthening the supply chain for neighboring businesses, this investment also brings high-quality jobs to advance our workforce as it continues to grow.”
-Charleston County Chairman Joe Boykin
“We’re pleased to welcome Red Metals to the Charleston region. Their investment reflects the continued momentum we’re seeing across Charleston and the strength of our regional partnerships. We appreciate their commitment to our community and look forward to supporting their success as they grow here.”
-Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board Chairman Will Russell
Fast Facts
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Red Metals is establishing its first copper manufacturing operation in Charleston County.
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The company’s $70 million investment is expected to create at least 45 new jobs.
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Red Metals is a next-generation copper manufacturer building a new domestic supply chain for finished copper products.
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The company will be located at 4500 Leeds Ave. in North Charleston, S.C.
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Engineers, operators and other entrepreneurial builders interested in joining the Red Metals team should visit redmetals.com to learn more.