McCall Farms, the South Carolina-based manufacturers of Margaret Holmes, Glory Foods, Peanut Patch Boiled Peanuts, Bruce's Yams, Allens, Allens Popeye, Veg-All and Princella, announced plans to expand its existing operations in Florence County. The $50 million investment is expected to create 140 new jobs.
Founded by James McCall in 1838, McCall Farms has grown significantly since its inception. Today, as one of America's leading producers of fresh canned vegetables and fruit, the family-owned company grows its products on 2,000 acres of family farmland in Effingham, S.C., with an additional 25,000 acres contracted throughout South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia and Florida.
Located at 6615 South Irby Street in Effingham, S.C., the expansion will allow the company to increase productivity for existing lines and to also install new lines.
The new facility is expected to be online by the second quarter of 2020. Those interested in joining the McCall Farms team can call the company between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. For more information, visit https://www.mccallfarms.com/.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved a $1.2 million Set-Aside grant to Florence County to assist with costs related to the project.
"McCall Farms is excited to see our company expand in Florence County. Our business has grown significantly over the last few years, and we have never been more appreciative of our employees and the customers who support us. We are proud to call South Carolina home, as our state provides an excellent business environment and our community has a dedicated workforce. We would also like to acknowledge our gratitude for the support we have received from our state and local officials. Their commitment and hard work make this expansion possible." -McCall Farms Co-Owner Woody Swink
"When a company like McCall Farms continues to grow within our borders, it shows that companies find the resources they need to be successful here. Every one of these jobs will have an impact on Florence County, and we thank this great company for their commitment to our state and we look forward to watching their continued success." -Gov. Henry McMaster
"South Carolina has a long history in agribusiness, and today's announcement by McCall Farms is another indication that sector is thriving. We're excited to congratulate the company on this latest expansion, and we look forward to seeing the impact these new jobs will have in Florence County." -Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt
"McCall Farms has been the backbone of the agriculture industry in our area since 1838, and I'm proud that they continue to invest and expand in our hometown. This expansion will not only provide additional jobs for our citizens; it also allows them to continue to support our local farmers." -S.C. Senate Finance Chairman Hugh K. Leatherman
"Florence County is a great place to do business, as this announcement attests. The continued success of our industries means success for the county as a whole and for all of us who live and work here." -Florence County Council Chairman Reverend Waymon Mumford
"The Florence County Economic Development Partnership prides itself on the growth of existing industries. The continued growth of McCall Farms is a testament to the business climate that we have worked diligently to cultivate and maintain." -Florence County Economic Development Partnership Chairman Joe W. "Rocky" Pearce
"The continuing success of McCall Farms shows the strength and promise of South Carolina agribusiness. This family business supports farmers and other workers throughout the Southeast, and puts Certified South Carolina food on South Carolina tables." -S.C. Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers