Area Development
MSC USA, the United States cargo shipping arm of Swiss-based MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, plans to invest $13.7 million to expand its operations in Charleston County, South Carolina. The project is expected to create 137 jobs.

The company is adding 25,000 square feet adjacent to the existing building and relocating corporate functions from its northeastern headquarters. The expansion is expected to be complete in 2023.

“Our Mount Pleasant branch, like many other MSC USA branches in the United States, is set to grow exponentially. The decision to expand in the region is a testament to Charleston County’s exceptional talent and resources. We would like to thank Charleston County Economic Development, alongside the state of South Carolina, its Governor and the mayor of Mount Pleasant for their community and business-friendly policies, which have made it possible for MSC USA to grow and flourish locally. We’re excited about the opportunity of drawing more talent to Mount Pleasant by continuing to invest in our workforce there,” MSC USA President and CEO Fabio Santucci said.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to the project as an incentive. The council also awarded Charleston County a $1.2 million Set-Aside grant to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.

“South Carolina has earned a reputation as a place that excels at making a variety of complex products. And, a critical factor in boasting a diversified, successful economy is the ability to efficiently and effectively transport products. MSC USA’s latest expansion is yet another testament that our state has the business climate and logistics capabilities companies are seeking,” noted Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III.

Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Switzerland, MSC has 524 offices across 155 countries with over 100,000 employees worldwide. The company opened in 1985 and has been serving the U.S. market for over 35 years. With access to an integrated network of road, rail and sea transport resources which stretches across the globe, MSC’s shipping line sails on more than 230 trade routes, calling at over 500 ports.

“South Carolina Ports congratulates MSC on their growth from humble beginnings to this year becoming the largest container line in the world. We are proud to play a small, but growing, part in that great success story. MSC is a longtime partner of ours in facilitating international trade. As a top 10 U.S. container port, South Carolina Ports looks forward to continued success and growth with MSC,” SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome added.