The Economy

Lawnmower Manufacturer to Expand in South Carolina

Nov. 4, 2010

Company expects to invest $105 million over the next 13 years.

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."

About the Author

Josh Cable | Former Senior Editor

Former Senior Editor Josh Cable covered innovation issues -- including trends and best practices in R&D, process improvement and product development. He also reported on the best practices of the most successful companies and executives in the world of transportation manufacturing, which encompasses the aerospace, automotive, rail and shipbuilding sectors.

Josh also led the IndustryWeek Manufacturing Hall of Fame, IW’s annual tribute to the most influential executives and thought leaders in U.S. manufacturing history.

Before joining IndustryWeek, Josh was the editor-in-chief of Penton Media’s Government Product News and Government Procurement. He also was an award-winning beat reporter for several small newspapers in Northeast Ohio.

Josh received his BFA in creative writing from Bowling Green University, and continued his professional development through course-work at Ohio University and Cuyahoga Community College.

A lifelong resident of the Buckeye State, Josh currently lives in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. When the weather cooperates, you’ll find him riding his bike to work, exercising his green thumb in the backyard or playing ultimate Frisbee.