Porter’s Fabrications increasing operations at Sumter plant

July 30, 2012

$2.5 million investment expected to create 60 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. – June 28, 2012 – Porter’s Fabrications, a maker of metal components, today announced plans to expand its existing plant in Sumter County. The $2.5 million investment is expected to generate 60 new jobs.

“We are excited to invest in our Sumter facility and increase our manufacturing capabilities. Demand for our products has increased and South Carolina has provided us with an excellent environment in which to do business. We appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Charles Saleh, CEO of Porter’s Fabrications.

Porter’s Fabrications opened its Sumter operation, located at 1485 Diebold Drive, about eight years ago. The expansion will allow the facility to increase capacity at the plant. Once the expansion is completed it will allow the Sumter facility to increase capacity and production of its primary products which are ATM safes and metal components.

“Every time one of our existing businesses expands it’s a win for South Carolina, and today’s announcement is no exception. Porter’s Fabrications’ decision to increase its footprint here is another sign our state’s business-friendly climate is helping companies prosper, and we celebrate the 60 new jobs they will create in Sumter,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

Since January 2011, South Carolina has recruited more than $6.8 billion in capital investment and more than 16,000 jobs in the manufacturing sector.

“In South Carolina, we know how to make things. Today’s announcement provides another boost to our state’s growing manufacturing sector. We look forward to Porter’s Fabrications’ continued growth in our state,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.

“I feel Porter’s Fabrications’ decision to expand here in Sumter County shows our workforce is trained and ready, and able to help the company meets its goals. And when you combine our excellent workforce with the kind of forward-thinking workforce training programs our community has, we can compete and win on any level,” said Sumter County Council Chairman Gene Baten.

“In a competitive global environment where a company can literally make its products anywhere, every Sumterite can be proud that Porter’s chose to expand here in Sumter. Team Sumter, from our city and county councils and development board, to our Smarter Growth Initiative and workforce, is primed and ready,” said Sumter Mayor Joe McElveen.

The company will begin hiring for the new positions in 2012. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact the SC Works Sumter center at 803-774-1300.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved a Rural Infrastructure Fund grant for $600,000 for equipment relocation and real property improvements.

For more information about Porter’s Fabrications, please visit www.portersfab.com.