SC: Husqvarna Announces New Distribution Operation: Invest $2.5M

Husqvarna Announces New Parts Distribution Operation in Lexington County The South Carolina Department of Commerce, Lexington County and the Central SC Alliance announced that Husqvarna will locate a parts distribution operation in Lexington County. The company anticipates investing more than $2.5 million and will be the principal tenant in a newly constructed building. “We are pleased to move forward with our plans for the new parts distribution center in Lexington County. This facility will be an important part of our future growth. South Carolina has long provided us with an excellent business environment and we look forward to continued growth in the state. We appreciate all the support we have received from state and local officials,” said Lowell Stoelting, Director of Parts Operations for Husqvarna. Husqvarna will lease warehouse space in the Midway Logistics Park and will begin moving into the facility in the first quarter next year. The company also currently operates a manufacturing facility in Orangeburg County that will support this new operation in Lexington County. “Husqvarna has enjoyed doing business in South Carolina for a number of years and their decision to continue to invest in South Carolina is another indication that our business-friendly climate, skilled workforce and unmatched market access are helping existing businesses prosper. We appreciate Husqvarna’s commitment to our state and look forward to their continued success here,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce. “Lexington County is pleased to welcome Husqvarna to its business community. Husqvarna, a leader in the global market for many of its products, will fit well here in Lexington County. We look forward to Husqvarna’s presence in Lexington County which should produce positive results for all,” said Debbie Summers, chairwoman of Lexington County Council. Central SC Alliance Chairman Jim Apple said, “We greatly appreciate Husqvarna’s continued commitment to invest in central South Carolina. Husqvarna will now have operations in three central S.C. counties. They recognize the unmatched global logistical advantages that exist here in the region. Our efficient transportation network and access to the Port of Charleston coupled with a trained and skilled workforce creates an environment where companies can thrive in today’s economy.” Husqvarna is the world's largest producer of lawn mowers, chainsaws and portable gasoline powered garden equipment such as trimmers and blowers. The Husqvarna Group is also a world leader in diamond tools and cutting equipment for the construction and stone industries. The Group's products are sold in more than 100 countries. For more information, visit www.husqvarna.com.

About S.C. Department of Commerce
The S.C. Department of Commerce works closely with economic development professionals throughout the state to recruit new jobs and investments and help existing businesses grow. Commerce has been recognized for its success in the areas of job creation and economic impact by Area Development magazine and Southern Business and Development magazine. The S.C. Department of Commerce was one of 10 state economic development organizations to receive Area Development’s Silver Shovel Award in 2009 and Commerce ranked number two in the South in points per million residents by Southern Business and Development for the state’s 2008 job recruitment efforts. In addition to job and investment recruitment, the agency provides a range of business support services, offers grants for community development and infrastructure improvements, and provides tools to enhance workforce skills. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.