GE Appliances, a Haier company, has announced it will create a new Manufacturing Center of Excellence for production of water heaters at its Camden, SC plant. The company is investing $60 million in the Kershaw County project. Since 2018, GE Appliances has invested more than $600 million in new products, U.S. manufacturing and its expanded smart distribution network, creating more than 1,200 new jobs.
“Today, GE Appliances is taking the latest step on our journey to become the leading major appliance business in the U.S.,” said GE Appliances CEO Kevin Nolan. “Using the latest, innovative manufacturing technology and processes, our new Water Heater Manufacturing Center of Excellence will enhance our U.S. production footprint and enable us to continue expanding our portfolio of Made in America products.”
GE Appliances is renovating and retooling the existing plant, which currently produces refrigerators, into a state-of-the-art, high-volume water heater production facility with capacity for future growth.
“The Kershaw County community has a long-standing relationship with GE Appliances, and we welcome the company’s new Manufacturing Center of Excellence,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “Manufacturing innovation is integral to economic progress, and I am delighted that South Carolina will provide the infrastructure and skilled workforce that enables GE Appliances’ continued success.”
“Today’s announcement is the latest welcome addition to investments that innovative businesses like GE Appliances are making in South Carolina,” said South Carolina Department of Commerce Secretary Bobby Hitt. “This manufacturing team has been a strong partner to the Kershaw County community for 20 years, and we are excited that the company is continuing to thrive in South Carolina’s pro-business environment.”
Through GE Appliances’ expansion, current employees will have the opportunity to assist in creating the new water heater production line – and will resume work in similar positions when the new line begins.
Operations are expected to be online in the fourth quarter of 2020.
Relocating or Expanding Your Business In South Carolina
Considering South Carolina for your company’s relocation or expansion project? Check out Business Facilities’ South Carolina Incentives and Workforce Development Guide.
