The deal is signed, sealed, and delivered in the Palmetto State.
A major consolidation of two business-centric organizations will go into effect soon in South Carolina.
Effective January 1, 2026, the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce and the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance (SCMA) will combine into one entity. It will be called South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce (SCMC).
“This merger represents far more than the joining of two entities. It represents a louder, stronger, and more forward-thinking voice for business and industry in South Carolina,” said Chamber Chairman Thomas Rhodes. “Together, we stand for better results and a better South Carolina. This moment is about legacy, but more importantly, again, it’s about our future. It’s about setting the stage for the next century of business success in South Carolina.”
Grant Burns, Chairman of SCMA, introduced Sara Hazzard as the President and CEO of the combined industry group. She currently serves as President and CEO of SCMA.
“Over the past two decades, she’s helped shape major legislation from economic development and tort form to workforce initiatives, infrastructure investment, and environmental policy,” said Burns. “Sara’s leadership at SCMA has equipped her with the vision to build a strong team, deliver results, and ensure that every investor in South Carolina, manufacturers, and commerce, receives the personal support that we’ve all come to expect.”
Hazzard said the strength of the combined organization will develop critical policy goals while the team advocates for the state’s manufacturers and business communities. That will enhance steps to ensure affordable energy, modern infrastructure, and a ready workforce.
“SCMA and the South Carolina Chamber combine over 900 members. With these members, we will build on the economic development momentum of the last decade,” she said. “By combining forces with our friends in the chamber and formalizing our partnership for the first time, we will move forward together, bigger, better, and more effectively. We will speak with one unified voice for manufacturers in the business community.”
“With this economy, we’ve been booming,” he said. “More and more people want to invest money in South Carolina, and that means in the people of South Carolina. We have to be sure they’re strongly educated and healthy, and safe. We’re doing that with this combination, making it official and making it constant communication, collaboration, and cooperation. That means we are going into high gear. So, everybody buckle up.”
