Dover Hydraulics to bring new operation to Charleston region

APRIL 4, 2003 – A company that specializes in the repair and reconditioning of hydraulic cylinders and components will soon break ground on a new facility in St. George’s New Century Industrial Park. Dover Hydraulics, Inc. today announced this first expansion outside its Dover, Ohio base. The announcement was facilitated by the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, which seeks to secure new business investment for the region.

Founded in 1982, Dover Hydraulics primarily serves the steel, aluminum, paper, marine, construction, mining, salvage and scrap industries – all of which rely on complex hydraulic systems. Dover is considered a technological leader in its industry, and has invested significantly in computer technology for workflow management, customer communications, diagnostics, testing and quality control. The company plans for significant investment and growth, creating approximately 20 new jobs over the next 5 years.

J.C. Raies, Director of Sales and Marketing for Dover, said the company chose the Charleston region over possible sites in Alabama and Atlanta for numerous reasons. “When we looked at the Charleston area, we found the right ingredients for supporting this new operation,” he said. “There is a growing base of companies in the sectors we serve, plus we’ll have quick access to other key markets via I-26 and I-95.”

According to Raies, the Town of St. George was especially attractive to Dover Hydraulics. “We like to be in a smaller community where we can help make significant contributions,” he said. “Plus the government officials in Dorchester County and St. George made sure we felt wanted and welcome.”

Gene Williams, Chairman of the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, welcomed Dover to the Charleston region. “Dover Hydraulics is precisely the type of company we are seeking for our region. They continually invest in technology to stay at the top of their industry. And they believe in paying strong wages to attract and retain the best employees. Thank you, Dover, for choosing to locate in the Charleston region.”

Randy Scott, Chairman of the Dorchester County Council, also welcomed the news. “Having a progressive company like Dover join our diverse business community is a win-win for all of us. Diversified industry, involved corporate citizens, and high quality jobs are the hallmark of our economic strategy.”

St. George Mayor David Sojourner also celebrated the news, noting that the company’s high-skill jobs will greatly benefit the St. George community. “Attracting a top-notch company such as Dover is a big win for our community. This announcement not only means good paying jobs for our residents, it also means a new tenant for our industrial park. I’m proud that the town and county have worked well together to bring Dover here.”

In facilitating a company announcement such as the one made today, the Alliance works with a wide network of organizations. A relationship of particular importance exists with the South Carolina Department of Commerce.

Bob Faith, Secretary of Commerce, said, “By using the latest technology, Dover Hydraulics continues to provide innovative customer solutions. Welcome to the Palmetto State – we wish you many years of success.”

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.

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Media Contact:
Colleen Troy
843 577 7327
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