$1.2 million investment expected to bring 44 jobs immediately
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Green Link Wood Industries Inc., a hardwood veneer manufacturer, plans to locate its new manufacturing facility in Bamberg County. The $1.2 million investment is expected create 44 jobs.
The company plans to purchase and operate the former Kearse Manufacturing Company Inc. facility located at 225 Veneer Lane in Olar, which it will use to produce hardwood veneer products that are primarily used in the engineered hardwood flooring industry. Green Link Wood Industries is a supplier to nationally known flooring retailers, including Bruce, Armstrong, Shaw, Anderson, Hartco and Harris to name a few.
When the BambergCountyfacility is fully operational in June, the company plans to begin hiring immediately for open positions. Interested applicants may apply at the SCWorks.org website or at any SC Works Center.
Since 2011, South Carolina has announced more than $62.6 million in capital investment in the forestry sector.
QUOTES
“We look forward to contributing to the strong wood manufacturing cluster that already exists within our region and our state. It is gratifying to know that we have such a sustainable hardwood resource within our region. There has been a wood manufacturing facility at this BambergCountysite since 1907 and we feel confident that we can continue to help our local tree farmers going forward. Without the assistance of S.C. Department of Commerce and BambergCounty, this project would have not been possible. We are very appreciative of the support shown to us throughout this process.” –Chester Kearse, Jr., president of Green Link Wood Industries, Inc.
“Congratulations to Green Link Wood Industries Inc. on their decision to open its first facility in Bamberg County with a $1.2 million investment which will create 44 new jobs. We look forward to their growth and future impact in South Carolina.” –Gov. Nikki Haley
“We are excited to see a company make a fresh start and trust its business in the capable hands of South Carolina. Green Link Wood Industries is a prime example of perseverance and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. I look forward to seeing them grow and succeed in South Carolina.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt
“SouthernCarolina Alliance and Bamberg County welcome Green Link Wood Industries to our industrial community and appreciate their investment in our workforce. Every job created represents a family whose quality of life has been improved in BambergCounty.” -Johnny Williamson, chairman of SouthernCarolina Alliance
“BambergCountyis a great place to do business, and we are proud that Green Link Wood Industries President Ched Kearse chose to grow his business here. We stand ready to assist him in any way that we can.” -Larry Haynes, chairman of Bamberg County Council
FIVE FAST FACTS
- Green Link Wood Industries Inc. plans to purchase and operate the former Kearse Manufacturing Company Inc. in Bamberg County.
- The $1.2 million investment is expected to create 44 jobs.
- The company’s new Olar facility will purchase hardwood logs and produce hardwood veneer that will primarily be used in the engineered hardwood flooring business.
- Green Link Wood Industry customers include brand names, Bruce, Armstrong, Shaw, Anderson, Hartco and Harris.
- When the BambergCountyfacility is fully operational in June, the company plans to begin hiring immediately for open positions. Interested applicants may apply at the SCWorks.org website or any SC Works Center.