June, 2nd, 2010
ANDERSON COUNTY, SC – Citizens and businesses wanting to learn more about First Quality Tissue’s new Anderson County plant are invited to a community meeting on Thursday, June 3rd. The meeting will be held from 10 am – Noon at the former Anderson County Fairgrounds on Williamston Rd. Anderson County thanks Anderson University for making the complex available to us.
Representatives of First Quality, Anderson Regional Joint Water System and Anderson County will provide a concise description of the project including plans for the existing site and future growth. Information will be given about construction of facilities, utilities, transportation access/egress, environmental concerns and opportunities for service providers and contractors.
This will not be a job fair; one will be announced in the future. It is also not a time for supplier/contractor interviews. However, information concerning service provider/contractor capabilities will be accepted on the following criteria:
Name of Company
Type of Service
Company safety record 2007-2010
OSHA RIR & LTRIR
EMR
Number of workers and hours worked from 2007-2010
Specific references
Company Pamphlet
May, 24th, 2010
(Pendleton, S.C. – May 24, 2010) – WorkLink Workforce Investment Board is now accepting applications for the Incumbent Worker Training (IWT) program. IWT grants are available for businesses in Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens counties. Applications will be accepted June 1 through July 15, 2010.
Incumbent Worker Training grants allow employers that have at least one employee and are current on all South Carolina state tax obligations to upgrade the skills of their current workforce through reimbursable training services and expenses. These grants are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, and priority will be given to businesses in the automotive, advanced manufacturing, energy, or bioscience industries.
Guidelines and applications are available by contacting Jimmy Pennell, WorkLink Business Services Representative, at (864) 646-5899 or jpennell@worklinkweb.com. Applications and guidelines can also be accessed online at http://www.worklinkweb.com/employers-4.php. Completed applications should be mailed to Jimmy Pennell, WorkLink, 511 Westinghouse Road, Pendleton, SC 29670. All applications postmarked by the deadline of Thursday, July 15, will be reviewed by a committee of the WorkLink Workforce Investment Board.
WorkLink is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
WorkLink’s business services improve the effectiveness of training dollars and the efficiency of training practices. Through partnerships with local and state organizations, WorkLink’s volunteer board of directors implements the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998 and ensures that the local workforce development system is market-driven and responsible in meeting the employment and training needs of employers and job seekers. WorkLink develops the link between employers and the workforce in Anderson, Oconee and Pickens counties.
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May, 14th, 2010
Company plans to invest $1 billion and create 1,000 new jobs in Anderson County
COLUMBIA, S.C. – May 14, 2010 – Gov. Mark Sanford, the South Carolina Department of Commerce and Anderson County today announced that First Quality Tissue SE LLC will locate its manufacturing operations in Anderson County. First Quality Tissue will establish a manufacturing facility utilizing a state-of-the-art Thru-Air-Dried (TAD) technology and a complete line of converting equipment, significantly expanding its capacity and commitment to the tissue and towel industry. The company plans to invest $1 billion and create 1,000 new jobs to support its new production facility in Anderson County, South Carolina.
“First Quality is very pleased to become part of Anderson County, South Carolina, and we look forward to working together to create real opportunities with all our partners, both in government and the private sector, that will benefit the entire community,” said Frank Ludovina, company representative for First Quality. “Among the factors that attracted First Quality to Anderson are the pool of skilled labor, positive work ethic and the availability of the infrastructure necessary to sustain our facility. As important, however, is the pro-business environment that has been created there. First Quality’s decision to locate in South Carolina would not have been possible without the abundant support from Governor Sanford, the team at the Department of Commerce and officials from Anderson County. We appreciate South Carolina’s commitment to First Quality and look forward to a prosperous partnership in the years ahead.”
“Fist Quality’s decision to put down roots in South Carolina and make a substantial investment of capital and new job creation is further indication that our efforts to establish a business-friendly climate are proving to be successful in today’s global competition for economic growth. Over the past several months, I had the opportunity to get to know the leadership at First Quality and I am confident that their decision to locate here will pay dividends for the company, our state’s business community and the local workforce in Anderson County, and we look forward to growing our relationship with First Quality in the coming years. Because announcements like this take a large degree of work at a variety of levels, I’d thank and applaud Secretary Taylor and the team at Commerce, as well as the local economic development community for the team efforts presented to make this announcement possible,” said Gov. Sanford.
“With today’s announcement, South Carolina has again demonstrated that we have the resources to compete and attract the finest companies in the world. First Quality’s decision to locate in Anderson County is a strong reflection on our state’s skilled workforce, unmatched market access and most importantly our state’s understanding that businesses locate where they can be successful and that means low regulatory burdens and low tax rates. Our business-friendly climate and talented team of economic development professionals, with an incredible salesman in the Governor’s office, were the winning combination needed to make this announcement of $1 billion in new investment and 1,000 new jobs for Anderson County a reality,” said Sec. Joe Taylor.
After an extensive site selection process in which the company considered multiple locations in the United States, Anderson County was selected due to its proximity to the growing Southeastern market, quality infrastructure and low energy costs among other factors. First Quality Tissue will acquire the former Shaw Industries facility on Masters Boulevard where it will construct its new manufacturing facilities. In addition to First Quality’s plans to create 1,000 new direct jobs over time, construction of the new facilities will generate an immediate impact with an additional 550 construction jobs.
“The First Quality announcement is great news for Anderson County and could not come at a better time. This investment will create hundreds of jobs in the area. I am very proud of the coordination between our local and state governments and was glad to be helpful in bringing this first rate company to South Carolina. The Department of Commerce and the Anderson community deserve a lot of credit for putting together a business plan to attract First Quality. I appreciate their hard work. I am very proud First Quality has decided to do business in Anderson, and I look forward to a long and productive relationship,” said Sen. Lindsey Graham.
“I want to congratulate the Anderson community for the hard work and optimism that is helping to attract new business to the area,” said Sen. Jim DeMint.
“First Quality chose South Carolina for their new manufacturing facility because our state is one of the best places in the world to do business. This new development will create hundreds of new jobs for the region and is an exciting opportunity for Anderson. I’m also thankful for the local and state partners who have worked together to bring this major economic development to South Carolina. And I will continue my fight in Washington to stop job-killing spending, taxes and debt so that South Carolina workers and companies like First Quality that employ them can have the best chance to succeed,” DeMint continued.
“This is the culmination of a great effort by federal, state and local officials working as a team for a common goal to create jobs. I was privileged to be a part of the team,” said state Sen. Billy O’Dell.
“I cannot say enough good things about First Quality, and what their decision means to the hundreds that will get a job with this great company. South Carolina has a lot to offer companies coming to the state, and I am proud of the work we have done to help put our citizens to work,” said South Carolina House Ways and Means Chairman Dan Cooper. “As people take notice of the quality of Anderson County’s workforce, I am confident these announcements will become more common place. I am pleased that First Quality chose to put their faith in South Carolina.”
First Quality Tissue expects the initial operations to commence in 2011 and will begin the hiring process in the third quarter of 2010. The company anticipates hiring 200 positions at that time. ReadySC™ will assist with hiring and training of new employees for the new Anderson County facility. Individuals interested in applying for positions should visit the S.C. Tech Jobs Web site at www.sctechjobs.com in the months ahead.
“This day would not have come without the collaboration and cooperation between federal, state and local officials,” said Anderson County Council Chairman Tommy Dunn. “We especially applaud the Department of Commerce and Senator Jim DeMint’s office for burning the midnight oil to make this happen. Also, I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Senator Billy O’Dell, Representative Dan Cooper, who along with the Anderson County Legislative Delegation played a critical role in this project.”
“Project Big Water is finally here,” said Anderson County Councilman Eddie Moore, District 3. “How can anyone not get excited about $1 billion in investment and 1,000 jobs! Now, that’s what I call economic development. We are pleased First Quality has found a home in Anderson County. This is the beginning of a beautiful friendship!”
First Quality Tissue currently operates two TAD tissue facilities with a combined capacity of approximately 150,000 tons per year. The initial plans for the Anderson County facility call for two additional TAD machines being installed consecutively, doubling First Quality’s current capacity. The company is anticipating having the first machine operational in the third quarter of 2011 and the second machine on-line by third quarter 2012. The company’s new investment is another demonstration of First Quality’s dedication to satisfying the needs of the market by providing innovative and high quality products.
About First Quality Tissue SE LLC.
First Quality Tissue SE LLC and its affiliates are a closely-held diversified group of companies manufacturing, selling and distributing branded and private label absorbent hygiene, paper, non-woven and beverage products into the healthcare, retail and commercial channels. First Quality is dedicated to meeting the demands of the market by providing innovative and high-quality products manufactured utilizing state of the art technology. For more information please visit www.firstquality.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. Commerce has been recognized for its success in the areas of job creation and economic impact by Area Development and Business Facilities magazines. The S.C. Department of Commerce was one of 10 state economic development organizations to receive Area Development’s Silver Shovel Award in 2009 and Commerce received the 2009 Deal of the Year award from Business Facilities magazine. Commerce received the top prize for Boeing’s selection of North Charleston for the company’s second final assembly plant for the 787 Dreamliner program. In addition to job and investment recruitment, the agency provides a range of business support services, offers grants for community development and infrastructure improvements, and provides tools to enhance workforce skills. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.
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For Immediate Release
Contact: Kara Borie, SCDOC, 803.737.1998
May, 7th, 2010
Free Small-Business Networking Roundtables to be held
Staff Reports
Friday, May 7, 2010
PENDLETON — The South Carolina Department of Commerce, area chambers of commerce, area economic development offices, and Tri-County Technical College will host networking sessions from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at DunBurks in Easley and from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 18, at the Gignilliat Center in Seneca.
Participants will be able to choose three of the following four topics and meet with those representatives in a roundtable discussion.
• Growing Your Business (Work on Your Business, Not Just in It) – Gather important information to help your business grow.
• Social Media Marketing, What Is It? – Learn how social media could be an important part of your business plan.
• Customer Service – Tips to build good rapport, project positive impressions, meet customer expectations, give good customer service and follow up to ensure customer loyalty.
• Marketing as an Investment – Discuss the most effective way to communicate the benefits of your product or service with your customers.
Speakers will be experts in the topics presented. Seating for workshops is limited. For more information and to register, contact Tri-County Technical College at (864) 646-1700.
© 2010 Scripps Newspaper Group — Online
October, 26th, 2009
By Scott Miller
smiller@scbiznews.com
Published Oct. 26, 2009
Anderson County took a step back to take a step forward in its economic development efforts.
Burriss Nelson recently became the interim director of the county’s economic development office, a position he previously held for four years. Interim County Administer Rusty Burns hinted that Nelson likely will shed the “interim” title.
“An announcement on that will be forthcoming,” Burns said.
Nelson would replace Heather Jones, who had been in the position since 2006 before being fired in August for unspecified reasons.
Burns wouldn’t comment on Jones or her termination. County Council Chairman Eddie Moore wouldn’t either, referring all questions to Burns.
“I think we have been behind in economic development,” Burns said. “Abbeville just had an announcement of 25 new jobs. Greenville is doing well. Spartanburg is doing well. Laurens is blowing up. It’s time for Anderson County to step up the game.”
“Rather than traveling throughout America, we’re trying to be selective and work with our existing industry,” he added. “We’re looking at them as a source to attract new industry. And we also are vigorously changing every rumor or possibility.”
As part of those efforts, Anderson County needs a single voice for economic development, Burns said, noting that the county is talking with Innovate Anderson about the two groups’ roles in economic development.
Innovate Anderson is a public-private nonprofit economic development organization formed by Anderson County, the City of Anderson, the Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce and private businesses
One possibility is that the two groups could merge, said Innovate Anderson President Michael Panasko.
“We are sitting down as two organizations and evaluating what would make us the most effective,” he said. “I think this conversation has been discussed for quite a long time. Political reasons have kept discussions from really moving forward. But we’re just at a time now where we’ve got people on the same page who are willing to have the dialogue.”
While the two agencies ponder their future efforts, economic development in Anderson County has not been at a standstill. Construction of the long awaited East-West Connector is now underway. Clemson University has begun construction of the new business at the Advanced Materials Center on S.C. 187, and The South Carolina Research Authority is building a $4 million companion facility on site to conduct classified research for its work with the U.S. military.
A priority moving forward, Burns said, will be developing and certifying more industrial sites for business growth and recruitment.
Site certification ensures to prospective businesses that a property has been analyzed by an accredited firm to determine acreage, ownership, boundaries, utilities and other issues important to industrial site consultants.
The S.C. Department of Commerce recently certified two industrial sites in Anderson County as ready for development: the 171-acre Airport Business Park on Highway 24 with direct access to the Anderson Regional Airport; and the 554-acre Tucker/Threatt site just off I-85 at Exit 27.
The county has applied for certification at other sites and plans to develop more, Burns said.
Burns recently met with 10 landowners with more than 800 acres of property near I-85 to create a plan to market their properties collectively rather than individually.
“Every one of the individuals was marketing that land to a degree,” he said. “We want to do is bring them together and market that as one large project.”
June, 26th, 2009
The S.C. Department of Commerce has certified two industrial sites in Anderson County as ready for development.
The sites are the 171-acre Airport Business Park on Highway 24 with direct access to the Anderson Regional Airport and the 554-acre Tucker/Threatt site just off I-85 at Exit 27.
Both sites are available for subdivision.
Site certification ensures to prospective businesses that a property has been analyzed by an accredited firm to determine acreage, ownership, boundaries, utilities and other issues important to industrial site consultants. The average cost of certification is $75,000.
“We’re working hard to position Anderson County as an attractive option for companies seeking immediate growth during this tough economy,” said Heather Simmons Jones, executive director of the Anderson County Office of Economic Development. “Certifying our available sites ensures that our properties meet the highest standards and will allow for immediate development when an opportunity arises.”
The county has three more sites in the pipeline awaiting certification.
The Commerce Department has certified more than 50 certified sites in 31 counties. Certification is designed to promote ease of use for site consultants and prospective businesses and ensure a simple, surprise- and trouble-free development process for end users.
Anderson County expects these certified sites to contribute to its efforts in create high-tech jobs, wealth and an expanded tax base.
The county’s economic development office is working with the Upstate Alliance to recruit manufacturing, service and distribution facilities for sector leaders in metal fabrication, high-tech manufacturing, automotive, advanced materials, alternative energy and information services.
“Anderson County is to be commended for their forward-thinking approach to economic development during this economic climate,” said Upstate Alliance President and CEO Hal Johnson. “Developing product that is ready for a companies’ decision is the right approach to make a community more attractive. This step that Anderson has taken makes their county and this region more competitive.”
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