Existing Industry News

In 1992, when BMW announced plans to establish its Upstate operations – the company’s first major manufacturing facility outside of Germany – its North American supplier network consisted of fewer than 25 firms. Today, that network has ballooned to include more than 250 companies.

Last month, in conjunction with the 7th Annual South Carolina Automotive Summit, Team South Carolina collaborated to host a business-to-business supplier matchmaker event, giving South Carolina firms an opportunity to connect with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and tier one suppliers, such as BMW, Bosch, Continental Tire, Draexlmaier, JTEKT, Michelin and Volvo Cars.

Over the last year, South Carolina’s automotive industry has experienced remarkable growth. In June, BMW announced a $600 million expansion in the Upstate; and in September, Volvo Cars announced a new product line and office facility for its $1 billion Lowcountry campus.

In South Carolina, we understand the importance of partnerships. When companies decide to make an investment within our borders, we commit to supporting them every step of the way.

In September, Charter NEX Films announced plans to establish a new $85 million specialty film manufacturing plant in Richland County. Now, having selected Hoffman Planning, Design and Construction, Inc. to construct the new 140,000-squre-foot facility, Charter NEX is looking for various subcontractors and suppliers to assist with the project.

Time and time again, Team South Carolina has proven to be resilient in the face of adversity. Over the last few years, we’ve rebuilt and recovered from several significant events, such as the flooding of 2015 and Hurricane Matthew in 2016. Last month, Hurricane Irma impacted the Lowcountry with a dangerous storm surge, high winds and flooding. To help local small businesses get back on their feet, a variety of resources have been made available.

In 2016, S.C. Commerce formed a partnership with the S.C. Biotechnology Industry Organization (SCBIO) to determine the footprint of South Carolina’s growing life sciences sector and develop a plan to advance that sector across the state.

In 2005, the United States Congress passed the REAL ID Act to comply with a set of standards for state-focused identification, which were recommended by the 9/11 Commission. As these new standards are implemented, many within the business community want to know how this will impact their company, and what can be done to prepare?

Although we are in the midst of another active hurricane season, some communities in the eastern corner of South Carolina are still recovering from last year’s Hurricane Matthew. To continue supporting our fellow citizens, Team South Carolina is taking ongoing measures to help them get back on their feet.

In the Palmetto State, we utilize a team first approach; we’re all part of Team South Carolina. Through successes and hardships, we stand strong together, ensuring that our state continues to move forward and prosper.