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Gov. Nikki Haley, the South Carolina Department of Commerce and Sumter County today announced that Apex Tool Group LLC will expand its operations in Sumter County. The company expects to invest nearly $1.4 million and generate 33 new jobs as part of the expansion.
“We are pleased to move forward with our expansion plans in Sumter County. This expansion will not only allow us to operate more efficiently, but also help us better serve our customers. South Carolina provides us with an excellent environment in which to do business and we look forward to our future growth here,” said Charles Klein, Director of Operations for Apex Tool Group.
Apex Tool Group will expand its Sumter facility where the company produces hand tools under the Crescent®, Wiss®, HK Porter ® and Xcelite® brands. The expansion will allow the company to increase capacity at the facility. The expansion is expected to be completed by the third quarter of this year.
“Our administration has made bringing jobs to every part of our state a top priority, and that’s why we’re so excited to see Apex Tool Group invest in our state, expand operations and create jobs in Sumter County,” said Gov. Haley. “It’s proof that if we continue to work day in and day out to make our state the most competitive in the country for business development that our businesses will grow and our economy will flourish.”
“We appreciate Apex Tool Group’s decision to increase operations at its Sumter facility. This announcement not only indicates the company’s commitment to our state, but also that South Carolina’s business-friendly climate encourages growth among our existing businesses,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.
“On behalf of Sumter County Council, we’re extremely pleased that Apex Tool Group has decided to continue the company’s long history of investments in our community,” said Sumter County Council Chairman Gene Baten. “Sumter County needs jobs, and it’s especially gratifying when they are created by companies we have known and worked with for many years. We wish the company great success, and pledge to do what we can to help Apex Tool Group prosper and grow in Sumter County.”
“I’ve always said that existing industry expansions are proof that our community is doing the things it needs to do to help businesses grow and prosper,” said Sumter Mayor Joe McElveen. “This is just one more piece of evidence that Sumter is a great place to do business, that we have a capable labor force eager to work, and that our leadership knows how to create an environment for business growth.”
“The people of Sumter County probably know Apex Tool Group by its former name, Cooper Tools. But regardless of what the company is called, this expansion continues a strong tradition of creating jobs and investing millions of dollars in Sumter’s Live Oak Industrial Park,” said Sumter Development Board Chairman Greg A. Thompson. “We’re especially proud that the company has weathered the recession to only grow stronger in Sumter County.”
The company plans to begin hiring for the positions this month. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact the Sumter Workforce Center located at 29 E. Calhoun Street at 803-773-7359.
About Apex Tool Group
Apex Tool Group was formed in July 2010 as a joint venture combining two premier tool manufacturers: Danaher Tool Group and Cooper Tools. Together, the two businesses offer industrial, commercial and do-it-yourself customers an unparalleled selection of over 30 leading brands, including Crescent, GearWrench, Armstrong and Weller. Guided by a strong team of seasoned industry executives, the new company is dedicated to providing its customers with outstanding products, timely delivery and customer service that is second to none. For more information about Apex Tool Group, please visit www.apextoolgroup.com.
About S.C. Department of Commerce
The S.C. Department of Commerce works closely with economic development professionals throughout the state to recruit new jobs and investments and help existing businesses grow. In 2010, Commerce recruited a record 20,453 new jobs and $4.1 billion in capital investment. Commerce was one of 10 state economic development organizations to receive the Silver Shovel Award in 2010 from Area Development magazine. Trade & Industry Development magazine selected two projects recruited by Commerce and its allies in 2010 for the magazine’s annual Corporate Investment & Community Impact Awards. Commerce’s efforts have resulted in the successful recruitment of numerous world-class companies such as Boeing, Monster.com, Heinz, ZF Group, BMW and Google Inc. In addition to job and investment recruitment, the agency provides a range of business support services and offers grants for community development and infrastructure improvements. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.
