Company investing $13 million to expand existing Bishopville operation
COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Atlantic Canners, Inc., a Coca-Cola production cooperative that includes several Coca-Cola bottlers, is expanding its Bishopville operations in Lee County. The company is expecting to invest $13 million and add nine additional jobs over the next five years.
South Atlantic Canners is managed by Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated, the largest independent Coca-Cola bottler in the United States. The company produces more than 300 brands of beverages and distributes its products across 16 states to more than 43 million people.
Located at 601 Cousar Street in Bishopville, S.C., South Atlantic Canners will be renovating its existing facility and making significant site improvements. Initial hiring for the new positions is already underway, and interested applicants should visit the company’s website for more information.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved a $75,000 Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to Lee County to assist with the costs of building upfit.
QUOTES
“This investment reinforces the commitment these Coca-Cola bottlers have to producing their products in Lee County and South Carolina. It is my hope that the improvements to and expansion of the facility will have a positive impact on future economic development.” –South Atlantic Canners Plant Manager Troy Santoscoy
“We are proud to celebrate South Atlantic Canners’ latest investment in South Carolina and our people. Anytime a company is able to grow and expand its operations here, it proves what we already know – that we have one of the most competitive business environments in the world and a workforce that can get the job done.” –Gov. Henry McMaster
“South Atlantic Canners has a long history of success in South Carolina, and we congratulate them on this latest expansion. Today’s announcement is further proof that all of our hard work in creating a pro-business climate in our state continues to pay off.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt
“South Atlantic Canners has been a strong corporate partner in Lee County for several decades. This investment and job creation is a strong commitment, and our relationship will continue for many years to come. Our council is dedicated to working with existing industries to facilitate their growth just as strongly as we are pursuing new industries to locate in Lee County.” –Lee County Council Chairman Travis Windham
“This investment is a prime example of this region continuing to support business and industry. Our number one objective is to provide a viable business climate to expand, grow and create jobs for our citizens. We congratulate Coca-Cola’s expansion and welcome the opportunity to continue a decades-long relationship with Lee County and the City of Bishopville.” –The Link Alliance Chairman Gordon Eckley
FIVE FAST FACTS
- South Atlantic Canners is expanding its Lee County facility.
- $13 million investment and the creation of nine jobs over the next five years.
- South Carolina Canners is managed by Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated, the nation’s largest independent Coca-Cola bottler.
- Located at 601 Cousar Street in Bishopville, S.C., the company will be renovating its existing facility and making significant site improvements.
- For more information on the company, visit www.cokeconsolidated.com.
About S.C. Department of Commerce
As South Carolina's leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. In three of five years, IBM-Plant Location International reports ranked South Carolina first in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign investment, per capita. The state won the Gold Shovel Award and the Project of Year Award from Area Development magazine in 2012, 2014 and 2015. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.