Coastal Glass Distributors to expand its operations in the Charleston region

MARCH 26, 2003 – A local company with a growing business in specialty glass fabrication will expand its operations in the Charleston region. Coastal Glass Distributors, LLC today announced that it will triple its capacity in order to accommodate growth in its business. Today’s announcement was facilitated by the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, a public/private consortium designed to strengthen and diversify the tri-county economy.

Coastal Glass, which is located in North Charleston’s Ashley Industrial Park, has grown significantly from its 1986 origins as a wholesale distributor that dabbled in custom fabrication. Today, the company distributes nationally and has a large specialty glass operation. This latest expansion will help the company enlarge its fabrication capacity and capabilities.

“As a company that has grown and prospered in the Charleston region, we know first hand the outstanding business environment offered here,” said Jack B. Hoey, Jr., President of Coastal Glass. “We believe the talents of our local workforce will help drive our company to even greater success. The strength of our employees, along with our excellent working relationship with the Port of Charleston, were key factors in our decision to expand in North Charleston.”

Coastal Glass Distributors’ $3 million investment in the region will include the addition of a new tempering oven that will triple its capacity. The company currently employs 110 people, and plans to create 50 to 60 new jobs with this expansion. In late 2002, Coastal Glass was named by U.S. Glass magazine, a leading trade publication, as one of the top 10 “Best Companies to Work For” in the U.S. glass and metals industry.

“The continued economic strength of the Charleston region depends on our ability to attract and retain companies that are committed to investing in the future,” said Gene Williams, Chairman of the Alliance. “Coastal Glass proves that, even in an industry as old as the glass industry, innovative thinking and creative solutions are key to continued corporate success.”

Tim Scott, Charleston County Council Chairman, also welcomed news of the company’s expansion. “Congratulations to Mr. Hoey and to Coastal Glass,” he said. “This award-winning company has obviously hit its stride, amidst the unprecedented Southeast building boom. Innovation keeps them at the front of the pack, and we feel privileged that they will keep growing here in North Charleston.”

“Coastal Glass has been a member of our business community for nearly two decades, and serves as a model of true corporate citizenship,” said North Charleston Mayor, Keith Summey. “Not only is this company an excellent employer, it is a longtime supporter of local charitable organizations, such as The Community Foundation. North Charleston is proud that Coastal Glass has chosen to expand its operations here in our community.”

In facilitating competitive relocations or expansions for the region, the Alliance works with numerous organizations. An especially noteworthy partnership exists with the South Carolina Department of Commerce.

“Coastal Glass is a fine example of a home-grown company that is prospering,” said Bob Faith, Secretary of Commerce. “By creating more than 50 local jobs, Coastal Glass will spread its successful techniques to the Charleston business community.”

Coastal Glass Distributors is one of the nation’s leading glass fabricators, marketing to architects, glazing subcontractors, retail glass shops and manufacturers throughout the United States. The company imports specialty glass products from around the world, including Europe, South America and Japan. The breadth of Coastal’s production capabilities is evidenced by the fact that the company currently holds more product certifications than any other glass fabrication facility in North America.

The Charleston Regional Development Alliance represents Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties. Its mission is to broaden and diversify business investment in this region, with a new emphasis on technology-intensive business sectors. Since its inception, the Alliance has worked with thousands of companies to help promote business investment and quality growth in the area. To learn more, go to www.charleston-for-business.com.

Media Contact:
Colleen Troy
843 577 7327
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