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COLUMBIA, S.C. – December 21, 2011 – Sportsman Boats Manufacturing Inc., a maker of saltwater fishing boats, today announced plans to establish its new facility in Dorchester County. The $2 million investment is expected to generate 30 new jobs.
“We are pleased to begin operations in South Carolina’s Lowcountry area. Dorchester County has provided us with an excellent business environment and we look forward to building boats here. We appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Tommy Hancock and Dale Martin, co-owners of Sportsman Boats Manufacturing.
Sportsman Boats Manufacturing is a start-up company that will initially lease space in the Eastport Industrial Park in Dorchester County. The company will produce boats ranging in size from 20 to 25 feet and will initially build deep “v” center consoles and bay boats. The company expects to begin manufacturing operations next month.
“We are talking with companies every day about bringing investment to South Carolina, but it’s always very exciting to see a company start its operations in the Palmetto State. We celebrate Sportsman Boats Manufacturing’s decision to establish its plant in Dorchester County and create 30 new jobs,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.
Since the beginning of the year, South Carolina has recruited more than $3.9 billion in investment and more than 12,000 new jobs in the manufacturing sector.
“Start-ups and small businesses play a vital role in our state’s economy. Sportsman Boats Manufacturing’s decision to locate in South Carolina not only helps build on our state’s manufacturing sector, but also shows that the state’s business-friendly climate provides a solid foundation for entrepreneurs,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.
“It’s particularly gratifying to announce new jobs during the holidays,” said R.M. Singletary, chairman of the Charleston Regional Development Alliance. “Maritime commerce and boat building have always been part of our region’s history and skill set. Sportsman Boats Manufacturing will continue that tradition of excellence and we’re glad they recognize the strategic location, benefits of a deep-water port and the skilled talent of our three-county region.”
“We are pleased that Sportsman Boats Manufacturing has chosen Dorchester County for their new facility. This investment further cements the county’s reputation as a center of excellence in boat and marine manufacturing and is also proof of our commitment to the area’s growing industries,” said Dorchester County Council Chairman Larry Hargett.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved the company for job development credits, which will be available when hiring targets are met. The S.C. Technical College System will provide pre-employment training.
The company will begin hiring for the new positions in mid-January. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact SC Works center in Summerville at 843-821-0695.
About S.C. Department of Commerce
As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing businesses grow. This year, Commerce won the Gold Shovel Award and the Deal of Year Award from Area Development magazine. Commerce has been part of recruiting world-class companies to South Carolina such as Boeing, Bridgestone, Continental, Monster.com, Heinz, ZF Group, BMW and Google Inc. Commerce also supports small and existing business, rural development initiatives and offers grants for community development. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.
