Company constructing new facility and creating 120 new jobs
COLUMBIA, S.C. – IFA, a direct supplier of propshafts for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, is constructing a new manufacturing and distribution facility in Berkeley County. The development represents $69 million of capital investment and is projected to create more than 120 new jobs in the coming years.
As one of the largest manufacturers of propshafts in the world, IFA assembles approximately two million state-of-the-art propshafts every year in Ladson, S.C. The company was established in 2002 and currently employs more than 600 people in the United States, serving many of the largest global automobile manufacturers.
As a first step toward a future consolidated site, IFA will be constructing a new 234,000-square-foot facility at 479 Trade Center Parkway in Summerville, S.C. This new building will enable IFA to add constant-velocity joint (CVJ) manufacturing to its North American business portfolio. Hiring for the new positions is projected to begin in the second quarter of 2018.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to this project. A $150,000 Closing Fund grant was also awarded to Berkeley County to assist with the costs of site preparation.
QUOTES
“IFA has a vision to be a Top 100 Auto supplier, and this latest investment is part of that plan. For 15 years, IFA has been growing with the region, and we are in a position of strength within our market. This expansion shows the shareholders confidence in the region and its employees, and strengthens our commitment to be in South Carolina for years to come.” –IFA President and CEO Mauro Amarante
“The investment that IFA has decided to make in our people and our state shows the world that our workforce and competitive business environment can lead to success for companies in every industry and of all sizes. We’re proud to congratulate IFA on its decision to expand in Berkeley County and look forward to watching them continue to grow here for a long time.” –Gov. Henry McMaster
“The Palmetto State’s automotive industry employs more than 65,000 South Carolinians, and with announcements like today’s, this booming sector shows no signs of slowing down. We congratulate IFA on this significant investment; and, we look forward to watching them continue to succeed within our borders and around the world.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt
“We appreciate IFA’s commitment to South Carolina and decision to remain in the Tri-County area, at their new home in Berkeley County. This move ensures nearly 600 employees will continue to produce state-of-the-art products for the automotive sector, which includes nearly 200 Berkeley County residents. It also means further opportunity for employment and additional investment.” –Berkeley County Supervisor Bill Peagler
FIVE FAST FACTS
- IFA is launching a new manufacturing and distribution facility in Berkeley County.
- $69 million to create more than 120 new jobs in the coming years.
- The IFA Group is one of the largest manufacturers of drive shafts in the world.
- The company will be constructing a new 234,000-square-foot facility at 479 Trade Center Parkway in Summerville, S.C. as a first step toward a future consolidated site.
- Hiring for the new positions is projected to begin in the second quarter of 2018.