Poland-based MAKROchem, a leading carbon black supplier for the rubber and tire industries, is establishing its first U.S. operations in a newly purchased, 183,000-square-foot, vacant building at 2013 West Meeting Street in Lancaster, South Carolina. The company is planning to invest $7.5 million in the project, creating 20 new jobs.

The company is a leading supplier of carbon black, a reinforcing filler in tires and other rubber products. With more than 20 years of commercial experience, the company also provides comprehensive logistics services, including transfer, warehousing and delivery.

As an incentive, the Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved a $50,000 grant to Lancaster County to assist with the costs of real property improvements related to the project.

“MAKROchem is excited to bring specialized, value-added distribution and other customized services to the tire and rubber industries in this region and throughout North America,” said MAKROchem North America Project Coordinator Jacek Niemczyk.

“MAKROchem’s decision to invest $7.5 million and create 20 new jobs in Lancaster County is a real reason to celebrate across our state and is a huge win for South Carolina’s automotive industry. We’re excited to welcome this fantastic company to the South Carolina family, and we look forward to watching them succeed and grow here for many years to come,” Governor Nikki Haley said.

“As the nation’s top producer and exporter of tires, South Carolina has become a premier destination for companies in the rubber industry. I offer congratulations to MAKROchem for joining this robust industry sector in South Carolina and look forward to supporting them as they grow here for many years to come,” Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt added.

“S.C. Ports Authority welcomes MAKROchem’s first U.S. operations facility to South Carolina, and the Port looks forward to handling its import needs. The growth of businesses that support South Carolina’s tire industry generates new volumes for the SCPA and has a significant economic impact on our state and region,” S.C. Ports Authority President/CEO Jim Newsome said.