ORANGEBURG, S.C. — The Okonite Company (Okonite), a cable and wire manufacturer, today announced it is expanding its operations in Orangeburg County. The company’s $400 million investment will create 105 new jobs.
Founded in 1878, Okonite is one of the oldest insulators of electrical wire and cable in the U.S., supporting a variety of industries including electric utility, oil and gas, railroad, and chemical. The company operates 34 locations nationwide, including two production facilities in Orangeburg County.
Okonite will build a new, approximately 552,000-square-foot manufacturing plant on its existing property, located at 2276 Rowesville Road in Orangeburg, to meet growing demand for the company’s high-voltage electric cable products.
The beginning phases of construction will start in the fourth quarter of 2026, and the project will take approximately two to three years to complete. Individuals interested in joining the Okonite team should visit the company’s careers page.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $1.5 million Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to Orangeburg County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.
QUOTES
“We thank the South Carolina Department of Commerce, the Orangeburg County Development Commission and the city of Orangeburg for their invaluable help and prompt actions in making our expansion possible.”
- David J. Sokira, CEO and Board Chairman, Okonite
“Okonite’s expansion in Orangeburg County is a testament to the economic opportunities and skilled workforce available here in the Palmetto State. We are pleased to see the company continue to invest in South Carolina and create 105 new jobs in Orangeburg County.”
-Henry McMaster, Governor, State of South Carolina
“With an investment of $400 million, Okonite’s expanded manufacturing operations will be an exciting economic advantage for Orangeburg County. We congratulate the company on its decision to deepen its roots in South Carolina and strengthen our state’s industrial capacity.”
-Harry M. Lightsey III, Secretary of Commerce, South Carolina Department of Commerce
“We are truly grateful for Okonite and the commitment they have shown to Orangeburg County over the years. An investment of more than $400 million and 105 new jobs means more opportunities for our citizens and more quality jobs right here at home. We thank them for continuing to invest in our people and for remaining an important part of the fabric of Orangeburg County.”
- Johnnie Wright, Chairman, Orangeburg County Council
“An expansion of this size takes a tremendous amount of work and coordination, and I commend our county team and partners for the work they have done to support Project Sweater’s plans. More than $400 million in investment and 105 new jobs is a significant opportunity for Orangeburg County. We are committed to supporting our industries as they grow, and we look forward to continuing that work as this expansion moves forward.”
- Harold Young, County Administrator, Orangeburg County
“The City of Orangeburg is proud to celebrate The Okonite Company’s continued growth and welcomed expansion. Since establishing its presence here in 1993, Okonite has demonstrated – through exceptional leadership and strong management – how industry can thrive and succeed in Orangeburg County. We deeply appreciate the company’s longstanding commitment to our community and the positive impact it continues to have on our citizens and local economy.”
– Michael C. Butler, Mayor, City of Orangeburg
“Okonite’s decision to expand its operations, invest $400 million and create 105 new jobs reflects the strength of the pro-business climate here in Orangeburg County. Existing industries are the backbone of our community, and their continued investment here opens new opportunities and moves our county forward. We congratulate Okonite and the talented workforce it supports, and we sincerely look forward to the company’s continued success.”
– Ken Middleton, Chairman, Orangeburg County Development Commission
FIVE FAST FACTS
The Okonite Company (Okonite) is expanding its operations in Orangeburg County.
The company’s $400 million investment will create 105 new jobs.
Okonite is a cable and wire manufacturer.
The company is located at 2276 Rowesville Road in Orangeburg, S.C.
Individuals interested in joining the Okonite team should visit the company’s careers page.
About S.C. Commerce
Welcome to South Carolina. The new headquarters of American innovation. As the state's lead economic development agency, the South Carolina Department of Commerce (S.C. Commerce) works to recruit and support companies of all sizes in their quest to launch, expand and build a legacy. With proactive, strategic initiatives that help the agency create economic opportunities to increase choices for all South Carolinians, S.C. Commerce champions new and existing businesses and partnerships that fuel emerging and established industries alike. S.C. Commerce is the principal collaborator for SC NEXUS, a consortium of state leaders in government, utilities, higher education and other stakeholders exploring advanced energy. Recognized for its pro-business climate and policies that have attracted global brands and industry leaders, South Carolina is committed to maintaining the state’s long-term competitiveness while building a modern economy — one that is diverse, supporting businesses at every phase of their lifecycle — allowing people to live and work where they love. For more information, visit www.sccommerce.com.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Alex Clark
Deputy Director of Communications
South Carolina Department of Commerce
(803) 734-4467
About Orangeburg County Development Commission
The Orangeburg County Development Commission (OCDC) is the primary economic development agency for Orangeburg County, South Carolina, advancing initiatives that position the county as a competitive destination for business growth and investment. Serving as a central hub for economic development, OCDC collaborates with a broad network of stakeholders—including industry leaders, government entities, site selectors, educational institutions, and workforce partners—at every level. Core functions include business recruitment, business retention and expansion, infrastructure development, workforce development, site readiness, data research, and marketing. Learn more at www.ocdc.com.
ORANGEBURG COUNTY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION MEDIA CONTACT:
Ciara Williams
Business Recruitment & Marketing Manager
Orangeburg County Development Commission
803-536-3333
###