Morgan Olson establishing new facility in North Charleston, $1 million investment with 119 new jobs

Morgan Olson LLC, a maker of walk-in van bodies, today announced that it will establish its new plant in North Charleston. The $1 million investment is expected to generate 119 new jobs.

“We are excited about locating our new facility in Charleston County. South Carolina offers a business-friendly environment and the skilled workforce we need for our operations. We appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said Dave Halladay, vice president of Operations at Morgan Olson.

Morgan Olson’s Charleston facility will strip and retrofit truck chassis built by Mercedes in North Charleston, as well as upfit cargo vans with modular interiors for Fed Ex, Ryder and other customers.

“More and more companies are learning the benefits of doing business in South Carolina and putting down roots here. We celebrate Morgan Olson’s decision to invest $1 million and create 119 new jobs here in Charleston County,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

Morgan Olson will locate its new 100,000-square-foot plant at 7555 Palmetto Commerce Parkway in North Charleston. The facility is expected to be online by October 1 and producing vehicles by October 22.

“The automotive industry continues to be a real driver in our state’s economy and in our manufacturing sector. When companies like Morgan Olson choose to locate here, it not only creates jobs and wealth for South Carolinians, but also increases our reputation in the automotive club,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.

Since January 2011, South Carolina has recruited more than $4.4 billion in capital investment and more than 6,800 jobs in the automotive-related sector.

“Congratulations to Morgan Olson on this exciting relocation news,” said Teddie Pryor, chairman of Charleston County Council. “Our automotive sector has led the way out of the recession among area manufacturers, and we are elated to be adding a company of the caliber of Morgan Olson to our corporate family. Their reputation for innovation and quality has preceded them here, and with the ever growing market for the Daimler Sprinter, we believe this facility will become central to their corporate strategy in the years to come. Our world-class Port and our unrivaled workforce will help create the fertile soil conditions for this success, and Morgan Olson can count on Charleston County as its pro-business partner for years to come.”

“The City of North Charleston commits to remain business friendly to support Morgan Olson and the expanding automotive sector of our regional economy,” said Keith Summey, mayor of North Charleston. “Morgan Olson is providing a welcomed capital investment and increased opportunities for high quality new jobs that will further strengthen our community.”

“We are proud to welcome Morgan Olson to our community,” said Charleston Regional Development Alliance Chairman Wayne Hall. “This expansion proves just how competitive we have become. Our three counties offer an incredible combination of assets for global manufacturers, including an established automotive cluster, a skilled workforce and the world-class training programs of readySC. By choosing to locate in the Charleston region, Morgan Olson sends a powerful message to automotive companies around the world.”

The company has completed its first hiring phase and information on additional hiring will be released at a later date.

Morgan Olson is the leading walk-in van body manufacturer in North America. Its portfolio of customers serves a multitude of industries and delivery applications, from baking and snack foods to newspaper, textile rental, vending and parcel delivery. For more information about Morgan Olson, please visit www.morganolson.com.