Husqvarna Announces Expansion of Orangeburg Operations

Company investing more than $29 million to expand operations in Orangeburg County

The Husqvarna Group has implemented a number of structural changes in order to improve efficiency and reduce costs. In line with these changes, Husqvarna has decided to expand their Manufacturing Operations in Orangeburg with the addition of a 513,000 square foot Main Distribution Center.

This expansion, taking place at Husqvarna’s Old Elloree Road location, will consist of an additional building that will serve primarily as warehousing, staging, and storage for the facility. The $29.5 million investment will include automation to transfer the finished products from the assembly lines to the new Distribution Center. In addition to the nearly $30 million investment this expansion is expected to create more than 25 new jobs over the next five years. The facility is expected to be operational in December 2016, in preparation for the 2017 season.

Husqvarna North America is part of the Husqvarna Group, a firm with a rich history that can be traced back to 1689. As the world’s largest producer of outdoor power products, including robotic lawn mowers, ride -on mowers and chainsaws, the company employs more than 14,000 employees in 43 countries across the globe. The Orangeburg plant hires up to 1,800 in the summer and fall, but at peak production in the winter and spring the company employs nearly 2,500 employees.

“Husqvarna has been an integral part of the Orangeburg County economy for nearly four decades. This expansion is further evidence of its commitment to the community. County officials have worked hard to attract new investments. This announcement is an indication that their efforts are paying off, and I believe other companies will follow Husqvarna’s lead in making Orangeburg home.” – Congressman James Clyburn

“Husqvarna is a leader in the manufacture of lawn and garden equipment and they have been an important part of the state’s business community for years. This expansion provides another indication that South Carolina’s business-friendly climate and skilled workforce are continuing to attract investment and help our existing businesses grow. By remaining committed to bolst ering South Carolina’s business environment and working to keep our business tax and regulatory burdens low, we will see more inves tments like this in the future,” -Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.

“Today’s announcement confirms the confidence Huqvarna has in South Carolina’s Global Logistics Triangle (I -26 US-301 I-95) and Orangeburg County’s workforce. We are fortunate to have Huqvarna in our State and welcome this new capital investment to our community.” -Senator John W. Matthews, Jr. Charirman Orangeburg County State Legislative Delegation

“We are grateful that The Husqvarna Group is located in Orangeburg County and continues to grow and support our community. Orangeburg County Council is ready to assist in the most aggressive way we can to ensure your growth is a smooth transition.” -Johnnie Wright, County Council Chairman