Area Development
Standard Textile, a leading global provider of end-to-end solutions for the institutional textile and apparel markets, plans a $5 million expansion at its manufacturing facility in Union, South Carolina. The capital investment is expected to create 35 jobs in the Palmetto State.

The manufacturer will be expanding its existing Union County facility, located at 100 Highpoint Drive. By expanding the facility by 39,000 square-feet, Standard Textile will be able to accommodate increasing terry towel finishing capabilities. The expanded plant will also facilitate new partnerships and opportunities in Standard Textile’s yarn spinning, yarn preparation, and weaving processes.

“We’re excited to announce the expansion of operations in Union, South Carolina, for it means adding quality jobs in America. This significant expansion to our state-of-the-art finishing facility, which we refer to as a ‘smart plant,’ utilizes technology in its incorporation of automation, robotics, and visual control systems. This announcement gives thanks to the work of the Union County Development Board, the Union County Council, the City of Union Council, and the South Carolina Department of Commerce for their efforts to generate more competitive conditions for this expansion, and for their confidence in Standard Textile,” said Standard Textile Co, Inc. President/CEO Gary Heiman.

According to the South Carolina Department of Commerce, the investment is part of Standard Textile’s overall effort to bring manufacturing back—in a significant way—to all of their U.S.-based facilities, which remained operative when other textile companies left America. The expansion in Union marks the beginning of Standard Textile’s North American manufacturing strategy, and demonstrates how the company is making greater use of its global web of manufacturing facilities in order to serve customers. ReadySC™, a division of the S.C. Technical College System, will be assisting with recruitment and training of potential employees.

“It’s always exciting to see an international company like Standard Textile choose to grow and invest in our state. This $5 million investment is great news for Union County, and the 35 jobs Standard Textile is creating will have a lasting impact on that community,” said Governor Nikki Haley.

“South Carolina is proudly leading the manufacturing renaissance, and Standard Textile’s expansion is yet another win for the manufacturing sector in our state. Their growing presence here underscores that South Carolina is known for making quality products the world over,” Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt added.

“Standard Textile, through its local and corporate management team, is truly committed to Union County. The investment of $5 million and the addition of 35 associates in their Terry Towel finishing business is the second expansion in just a short two year period for the company. We will continue to work with all entities as Standard Textile grows in our community,” Union County Development Board Chairman Joe Nichols noted.