Italian clockmaker to bring North American distribution center to the Charleston area

December 18, 2002 – An internationally recognized manufacturer of fine, inlaid furniture, clocks and music boxes will establish its North American distribution center in the Charleston region, creating five new jobs for the area. Le Ore USA LLC, a subsidiary of Italian company Le Ore s.n.c., will join the growing community of distribution companies on the Cainhoy Peninsula. Today’s announcement was facilitated by the Charleston Regional Development Alliance.

The third generation, family-owned company creates its intricate products by hand, using solid hardwoods such as walnut, rosewood and mahogany. Inlay materials include wood, mother of pearl and fine wood veneers. Considered top of the line, Le Ore pendulum clocks retail for as much as $5,000 to $8,000 in the U.S. In moving to the Charleston region, Le Ore is seeking to strengthen its North American distribution. The U.S. presently represents about 40% of the company’s sales.

According to Luca Marta, President of Le Ore USA, Charleston quickly emerged as the clear choice for this new operation. “We needed to be near a strong, reliable port and the Port of Charleston is among the best,” he said.

Alfredo Temelini, Director of Operations, also commented on the decision: “The culture here reminds us of our home in Europe. We have met friendly people, we love the beautiful environment, and we enjoy the climate and delightful Southern foods.”

“Perhaps we have been most impressed with the responsiveness of the local economic development community,” he continued. “They seem genuinely interested in having us here.”

F. Eugene (Gene) Williams, Chairman of the Alliance, elaborated: “The Alliance seeks to broaden and diversify our region’s economy. By attracting a unique, top quality company like Le Ore, we’re adding to our international business community while securing additional business for our port. It’s easy to see why our Alliance did, indeed, want Le Ore here.”

“We know that Le Ore also considered possible locations in New York and Wilmington for this facility,” said Jim Rozier, Berkeley County Supervisor and County Council Chairman. “We intend to prove every day that the company made the right decision in choosing to locate in Berkeley County.”

To learn more about Le Ore USA, visit their website at www.leoreusa.com. To contact the company directly, send an e-mail to [email protected], or call (843) 849-0762 or 877-LE ORE US (toll free).

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
[email protected]