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Top Industries In South Carolina

South Carolina's mild climate, location and ideal ecosystem for business attracts major industries and headquarters.

By Livability.com on June 9, 2017

South Carolina Top Industries
South Carolina / Todd Bennett
Warm air ducts are installed on a BMW X3 instrument panel at Draxlmaier in Duncan, S.C.

South Carolina may boast warmth and charm from its beautiful beaches and year-round outdoor adventures, but the state means business. South Carolina offers strong schools, a talented workforce and business-friendly environments that major employers like Boeing, BMW, Monster.com, Google, GE Energy and Michelin have taken advantage of. Automotive manufacturing, aerospace, biotechnology, energy and logistics are some of the top industries that keep South Carolina competitive.

Aerospace

Already a leader in manufacturing, South Carolina has turned to aerospace. More than 16,000 people are employed by over 100 aerospace-related companies, and major players like General Electric and 3D Systems significantly contribute to the state’s prosperity. Specifically, The Boeing Company operates from two assembly plants, which were expanded in the last few years due to the state’s infrastructure and workforce.

Alternative Energy

South Carolina is home to the largest publicly operated biomass facility in the country; the principal engineer location for General Electric’s wind energy and Energy Engineering Infrastructure headquarters; Staubli’s North American headquarters; Clemson University’s wind turbine drivetrain testing facility; and a multitude of solar and wind energy-related companies. The state’s growing recycling market also employs more than 37,000 people at over 500 companies.

Automotive

More than 250 automotive-related companies are based in South Carolina, an outstanding location for both small and big companies. Home to Michelin’s and American LaFrance’s headquarters, as well as the only BMW plant, more than 200 suppliers support automotive companies in the state.

Read more about business in South Carolina

Biotechnology

Biotechnology in South Carolina includes manufacturing and life science research and development companies, employing over 13,000 residents. Major players like ArborGen and Martek Biosciences contribute to the state’s economic success. Additionally, the state maintains a strong base of pharmaceutical manufacturers, chemical processors generic and proprietary drug producers, hygiene product makers.

Logistics

Many top companies, such as Target, Dollar General, Walgreens and Wal-Mart, take advantage of South Carolina’s strategic location on the East Coast, just a day’s drive from the country’s most lucrative markets. The state lends access to five interstates; five major airports, 54 general aviation airports, numerous major air, truck and rail freight services; and one of the busiest U.S. seaports, Port of Charleston.

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