SOPAKCO, a world leader in the design, processing and packaging of processed foods, is expanding its Marion County operations. The company is investing more than $12.5 million on a three-phase expansion that is expected to create 25 new jobs.
In 1943, SOPAKCO was founded out of the need for military food rations. More than 70 years later, the company remains one of the top providers of meals ready to eat, commonly known as MREs, to the U.S. military. In addition to emergency meal rations, SOPAKCO has evolved to become a cutting-edge food processing company for major national and international brands.
Headquartered at 118 S. Cypress Street in Marion County, SOPAKCO's expansion, which includes constructing a new facility to house its corporate offices, is designed to increase manufacturing capacity and flexibility.
Individuals interested in careers at SOPAKCO can visit https://sopakco.com/careers/.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved a $250,000 Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to Marion County to assist with the costs of site preparation and infrastructure improvements.
"SOPACKO has experienced great success in South Carolina. This is the third expansion in Marion County in the past five years. The value that Marion County brings through its business-friendly climate and quality workforce has allowed us to thrive here and we look forward to continuing our partnership." -SOPAKCO President Lonnie Thompson
"This latest expansion by SOPAKCO proves that South Carolina is a perfect place to do business. Congratulations to SOPAKCO for all of its success, and we look forward to watching the company grow and thrive here for many years to come." -Gov. Henry McMaster
"The ongoing success of SOPAKCO in Marion County is a testament to South Carolina's status as a leader in food processing. We applaud SOPAKCO on this latest expansion and look forward to their continued success." -Secretary Bobby Hitt
"SOPAKCO's continued investment in rural South Carolina is another great example of the potential of our state's value-added agricultural sector and its contribution to agribusiness. I am thrilled with their growth and the additional 25 jobs this expansion will create for rural South Carolina." -Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers
"SOPAKCO has been a job creator in Marion County for several decades. It is a great thing that they will expand and remain in our county. We are here to help and assist SOPAKCO in any way that they need." -Marion County Council Chairman Buddy Collins