Two recently announced economic development projects will mean a combined $333.7 million investment and create 225 new jobs for two counties.
In Bamberg County, Circular Composite Solutions (CCS) has committed $53.7 million to a facility that will create recycled wood and plastic pallet components, creating 70 jobs.
In neighboring Orangeburg County, a $280 million project by Carolina Renewable Products (CRP) will add 155 new jobs. It will be a next-generation biomass-to-renewable diesel facility.
Will Williams, President and CEO of Western SC, said the developments will impact more than just Bamberg and Orangeburg counties.
“Rising tide lifts all boats,” he said, adding that the construction phase of both projects will draw skilled tradesmen from all surrounding counties.
Robbie Bennett, President and CEO of the SRS Community Reuse Organization (SRSCRO), told ABD, while the projects will have limited economic impact on Aiken and nearby counties, he agrees that construction of the facilities will.
“You get a whole lot more ripple because of the construction side,” he said. “You go 60 miles outside of us and look at all the construction projects. We don’t have enough construction and trade skills. We just don’t. We need more to meet the demand of all the industries growing.”
A news release announcing the CCS project said the subsidiary of Gibbs International, Inc., will occupy 75,000 square feet in the former Rockland Industries textile mill on Calhoun Street.
“I am honored to cut the ribbon on our new composites plant in Bamberg, South Carolina – a milestone that brings vital jobs and renewed opportunity to this economically challenged community,” the release quoted CCS CEO Darrell Turner, who added it is just the beginning. “Our commitment extends well beyond this opening: we are dedicated to growing our business, driving innovation, and creating lasting opportunities that will empower the people of Bamberg and help build prosperity for generations to come.”
A news release from Gov. Henry McMaster (R) said CRP purchased its site on Prosperity Drive. It will also serve as the company’s headquarters and training hub.
“In South Carolina, agribusiness is a major economic driver, and today’s announcement from Carolina Renewable Products is further proof of the industry’s strength. This $280 million investment, creating 155 new jobs, will greatly impact Orangeburg County, and we look forward to seeing the company succeed in the years ahead,” he said.
CRP CEO Robert Bryan was quoted in the news release saying the company was attracted to the state’s forestry and agricultural traditions.
“We are proud to harness that strength to fuel a cleaner, more resilient future. Our facility will not only provide a reliable outlet for local forestry but also create products that aid South Carolina’s energy independence and help farmers, growers, and businesses thrive while advancing the state’s leadership in renewable energy,” said Bryan.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development assisted in financing both projects through job development credits. It also awarded a $750,000 Closing Fund grant to Orangeburg County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction. In Bamberg County, the council awarded a $750,000 Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to assist with the costs of building improvements.
“SouthernCarolina Alliance congratulates Bamberg County on the announcement of 70 new jobs and thanks Circular Composite Solutions for their investment in our people, which speaks to the strength of our workforce and the pro-business environment in our region,” said alliance President and CEO Danny Black.
Bennett said SouthernCarolina Alliance and Western SC have a unique role in the Palmetto State’s economic development.
“Western SC and SouthernCarolina both are regional economic development organizations, which is different than in Georgia,” he explained. “These groups serve as marketing organizations for those counties. Some of them also do the economic development work at the county level, while others are actual economic developers in the counties that are benefiting from the marketing that’s going on by these other groups.”
CCS anticipated operations will be online later this year. Individuals interested in joining the CCS team should contact jobs@circularcs.com
Officials with CRP said the target to be fully operational is in late 2026. Individuals interested in joining the CRP team should contact jobs@carolinarenewableproducts.com
