Outokumpu Stainless Bar, a metal fabrication company, will invest $18 million to expand its manufacturing operations in Chester County, South Carolina, with the construction of a new 60,000 square foot plant at Colonel’s Point Industrial Park.

The new facility will allow the company to expand capacity to better serve our distributors who supply stainless bar for transportation, aerospace and oil and gas customers. The company expects to begin construction of the new facility within a couple months and have it finished by the fall.

“We look forward to expanding our operations in Chester County. The new facility represents a major step for our company and will allow us to expand our market presence. South Carolina has provided us with an excellent business environment and a talented workforce to suit our needs. We appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials, and we look forward to growing here,” said Lou Kern, senior vice president and general manager of Outokumpu Stainless Bar.

“It’s exciting to see another one of our state’s manufacturing businesses expand here. Today’s announcement is another win for one of South Carolina’s rural areas and we celebrate Outokumpu’s investment of $18 million and the creation of 20 new jobs in Richburg,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

“Our state’s manufacturing sector continues to grow and create jobs, and today’s announcement by Outokumpu is another sign of that. We appreciate the company’s decision to grow here and further strengthen the sustainability of the communities in Chester County,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.

“The news that Outokumpu Stainless Inc. is investing in Chester County for a second time is a solid testament to Chester County’s pro-business climate. Our team remains dedicated to excellence and the continued growth in Chester County,” said Mike Enoch, chairman of the Chester Development Association.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved a rural infrastructure grant for $150,000 for site work. The expansion will create about 20 additional jobs.