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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Harbor Freight Tools Plans Major Distribution Hub Expansion in Dillon County, South Carolina

11/08/2017
Harbor Freight Tools, national tool retailer, plans a 1-million-square foot expansion of its East Coast distribution facility in Dillon County, South Carolina. This expansion is projected to create more than 500 new jobs, bringing the company’s total investment in South Carolina to more than $200 million.

Founded in 1977, with more than 800 stores nationwide and a new store opening approximately every three days, the company has more than 40 million customers.

Harbor Freight currently employs 650 people at its Dillon facility in positions ranging from managers to warehouse stockers. This is the third expansion of the company’s distribution center, the first occurred in 2006, and another took place in 2014. Work on the new project is expected to break ground by the end of 2017, with completion expected in early 2019.

As an incentive, the Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to this project. A $5 million Rural Infrastructure Grant was also awarded to Dillon County to assist with the costs of site preparation.

“Since we opened our first facility here in 2001, the company has continued to grow and so has our need for a larger distribution center. We’ve made an investment in Dillon, becoming part of the community, and we’re proud to expand our presence in this region. Dillon County, along with leaders from Marion and Marlboro County, were instrumental in our decision to expand here,” said Harbor Freight Tools Founder & CEO Eric Smidt.

“Harbor Freight Tools’ continued investment in Dillon County and in our people is a testament to our approach to creating a competitive business environment where companies of all kinds can thrive. The 500 jobs this great company is creating will make a difference in the lives of South Carolinians, and for that, we couldn’t be more grateful,” said Governor Henry McMaster.

“The significant expansion of Harbor Freight Tools is exciting news for the Port and state. They served as a catalyst for the development of Inland Port Dillon and will be the launch customer of that facility, further driving jobs and growth opportunities for the Dillon area. The Port values our role in Harbor Freight’s international supply chain and looks forward to a strong continued partnership with them," said S.C. Ports Authority President & CEO Jim Newsome.

“We are proud that Harbor Freight Tools has chosen to expand for the third time in the NESA region. Their ability to thrive here reflects well on the reliability and productivity of our workforce, our many logistical advantages and the support of our partner counties. We wish Harbor Freight continued success and look forward to working with them in the years to come,” North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA) Executive Committee Chairman Sen. Luke Rankin, Esq. said.

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