Linear, LLC opens electronics distribution facility

April 28, 2006 – After considering locations in Savannah, GA, and Lexington, KY, Linear, LLC chose the Charleston region as the site for the company’s electronics distribution facility. Linear will locate in Summerville’s former Belk distribution building in Berkeley County. About 40 new jobs will be created, with an investment of approximately $1 million. Today’s announcement was facilitated by the Charleston Regional Development Alliance.

Headquartered in Carlsbad, CA, Linear (www.linearcorp.com) manufactures security systems for homes, smoke and fire detection systems, home theater entertainment and networking equipment, and medical emergency and duress situation products. The company operates as one of three subsidiaries under parent company Nortek. The 162,000-square-foot Summerville facility will be the company’s first distribution operation.

“Charleston’s transportation infrastructure provides Linear with a strong foundation from which to attain its goals,” stated Vice President of Logistics Terry Cain. “Proximity to the port, along with access to I-26 and I-95, enables Linear to distribute 50% of the company’s merchandise along the East Coast from this one location.”

Bill McCall, chairman of the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, welcomed the news. “Once again, the region’s ability to meet the supply chain needs of its future corporate citizens landed us a new business partner. We are pleased to have Linear join our community.”

“We believe the company will be well pleased with their decision,” said Jim Rozier, Berkeley County Supervisor and Chairman of Berkeley County Council. “We are confident they will find both a quality of life which makes Berkeley County and the Charleston region a great place to live, as well as a supportive and growing business structure for their continued success.”

Berlin Myers, Mayor of Summerville, added: “We’re pleased and proud that Linear trusted our town as the place to invest for the future.”

In facilitating announcements such as today’s, the Alliance works with numerous public and private sector allies. Its relationship with the South Carolina Department of Commerce has been of particular importance through the years.

“Our state shows its best when companies the caliber of Linear LLC choose to locate their distribution centers here,” said Secretary of Commerce Joe Taylor. “Smart business leaders see the economic benefits of having the country’s most efficient port and two major interstate highways at their front door. I am pleased to welcome a forward thinking company into South Carolina. ”

About the Charleston Regional Development Alliance
The Charleston Regional Development Alliance represents Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties. Its mission is to create improved opportunities for all residents in this region. 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.

Alliance Media Contact:
Jenn Simpson
843-760-4522
[email protected]

Company Contact:
Rene Brito
843-875-4877
[email protected]