Lawnmower Manufacturer to Expand in South Carolina

Husqvarna North America, a manufacturer of lawnmowers, chainsaws and other lawn and garden equipment, plans to expand its Orangeburg, S.C., operations.

The company expects to invest $105 million in the plant over the next 13 years, according to the South Carolina Department of Commerce.

"The expansion of our Orangeburg plant will help our company remain competitive and make our operations more efficient," said Michael Jones of Husqvarna North America. "South Carolina has proven to be an ideal fit for our operations, providing us with a thriving business environment, a talented workforce and exceptional access to markets. We look forward to expanding our manufacturing operations in South Carolina in the near future."

Husqvarna North America is in the process of adding equipment to its Orangeburg, which currently produces riding garden tractors, tillers and similar products. The added equipment will allow the plant to assemble new products, including the company's zero-turn-radius lawnmowers.

Husqvarna will make its investment in two phases. The first phase will involve a $30 million investment to be completed by Dec. 31, 2013, and the second phase will involve a $75 million investment to be completed by Dec. 31, 2024.

The company's Orangeburg plant has been in operation since the early 1970s, and Husqvarna is the largest employer in the county.

"Husqvarna has been an integral part of the Orangeburg County economy for nearly four decades," U.S. Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.) said. "This expansion is further evidence of its commitment to the community. Orangeburg County officials have worked hard to attract new investments. This announcement is an indication that their efforts are paying off, and I believe other companies will follow Husqvarna's lead in making Orangeburg home."