FN America, LLC, the United States subsidiary of FN Herstal, S.A. and a global firearms manufacturer, announced plans to expand its Richland County operations. The company’s $18 million investment will create approximately 102 new jobs.
With existing operations near Old Clemson Road in Columbia, FN America plans to expand its South Carolina-based production facility by adding approximately 40,000 square feet for manufacturing capacity, office space and a design center of excellence. This expansion will further the company’s research, design and engineering capabilities, and meet the increased demand for FN America products.
FN America is a valued partner to the U.S. Department of Defense, developing and manufacturing small arms for the U.S. military and its allies. In 1979, FN America broke ground on its facility in Richland County and officially opened operations in 1981 to manufacture the M240 medium machine gun under contract to the U.S. Army. FN America’s primary business focuses on the design and production of a wide range of small arms including lightweight machine guns, medium machine guns and additional weapons for the U.S. Department of Defense. Additionally, FN America produces firearms for law enforcement agencies as well as authorized retailers. Currently, the company employs more than 600 personnel in manufacturing, engineering, logistics, product and program management, and other areas.
The company plans to break ground in 2023 with an estimated completion date in the first half of 2024. Individuals interested in joining the FN America team should visit the company’s careers page at https://careers.fnamerica.com.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to this project.
“The record growth that our company has had these last several years has enabled us to invest in our South Carolina manufacturing footprint with our soon-to-be new facility in Liberty and now the expansion of our Columbia facility. We were established in Richland County more than 40 years ago to manufacture small arms for the U.S. Army, and we are proud to expand our capacity to support that sector of our business.” -FN America, LLC President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Cherpes
“We are pleased to see such a valued partner of South Carolina's business community continue to expand in our state. This $18 million investment that will create approximately 102 new jobs will greatly benefit the people of Richland County, and we look forward to FN America's continued success in South Carolina for years to come.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“Today’s announcement extends our well-established partnership with FN America. This expansion is further proof that Richland County continues to be a foundation for new and existing manufacturing companies. Congratulations to FN America on growing its South Carolina operations.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“FN America has been an asset to Richland County and the U.S. military since 1981. We are excited to witness this company’s continued growth, which points to the capable workforce in our community. FN America’s expansion is a win for Richland County.” -Richland County Chair Overture Walker