SC: Sportsman Boats Manufacturing to Expand, Add 50 New Jobs

Sportsman Boats Manufacturing plans to expand its current operations in Dorchester County with a move into a larger facility. The $2.35 million investment is expected to generate 50 new jobs within the next five years.

“We are pleased with the success we’ve had here in Dorchester County and we’re looking forward to growing our operations here. This expansion is a big step for our company. South Carolina has provided a great fit for our business and we appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Tommy Hancock, president of Sportsman Boats Manufacturing.

Sportsman Boats Manufacturing is moving its operations into a new, larger facility at 113 Isaac Way, which will give the company 72,600 square feet of space. The expansion will allow the company to expand its capacity as well as add new boat models to its product range. The company expects to be fully moved into the new facility by Labor Day.

“It’s always exciting to see one of our existing businesses grow, and we’re thrilled to see Sportsman Boats Manufacturing expand less than two years after first setting up shop in Dorchester County. We celebrate the company’s decision to invest $2.35 million and create 50 new jobs in Summerville,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

Since January 2011, South Carolina has recruited more than $9 billion in capital investment and more than 23,000 jobs in the manufacturing sector.

“South Carolinians know how to build things, and build them well. Sportsman Boats Manufacturing’s expansion adds momentum to the Palmetto State’s manufacturing renaissance, and we look forward to them continuing to grow and create jobs that will have an impact,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.

“Expansion projects like this speak volumes for Dorchester County’s reputation,” said Dorchester County Council Chairman Bill Hearn. “Our boat manufacturing sector has seen continued growth over the last few years, and Sportsman Boats Manufacturing is no exception. We thank Sportsman Boats for partnering with Dorchester County and look forward to seeing their company continue to thrive in the future.”

The company will begin hiring for the new positions this month. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should visit the company’s careers webpage at www.sportsmanboatsmfg.com/Careers.html.

For more information about Sportsman Boats Manufacturing, please visit www.sportsmanboatsmfg.com.

About S.C. Department of Commerce

As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing businesses grow. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as Boeing, Bridgestone, Continental, Monster.com, Heinz, ZF Group, BMW and Google Inc. and also supports small and existing business, rural development initiatives and community development. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. South Carolina has been ranked first in attracting jobs through foreign investment by IBM-Plant Location International.