Port / homeland security boat manufacturer locates operation in the Charleston region

APRIL 2, 2004 – Top Cat Marine Security, Inc. will relocate its state-of-the-art manufacturing operation to Berkeley County, in the greater Charleston, South Carolina region. The company, which is headquartered in New York City, manufacturers high-performance boats intended for use by defense, homeland security, port security and law enforcement officials.

Top Cat manufactures and markets a line of Cobra Boats, considered the world’s fastest, most agile, stable and fuel-efficient crafts in the industry. Cobras can reach speeds of over 90 miles per hour in water just two feet deep, and their patented Kevlar® hulls make them virtually bulletproof and unsinkable.

At a gathering today to announce the move to the Charleston region, Top Cat officials outlined their plans and motivations for the new manufacturing facility.

“In considering the Charleston area for this operation, we were excited to see a critical mass of defense industry suppliers,” said Peter Casini, Top Cat’s chief operating officer. “We also found a ready-made client base in the numerous marine-based law enforcement entities located here, plus a region-wide enthusiasm for new business investment.”

Top Cat expects to create up to 75 jobs within the first year of operation, and will invest $2 million in the region. The company will take over an existing facility in the Town of St. Stephen.

Bill Youngblood, chairman of the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, welcomed the company’s arrival, noting: “With our region’s long maritime and military history, it’s exciting to see these two important economic sectors come together to attract such a dynamic, forward-thinking company. We welcome Top Cat and the high quality jobs they bring to the region.”

“Berkeley County is pleased to have such an exciting company join our business ranks,” said Jim Rozier, Berkeley County Supervisor and County Council Chairman. “We believe that Top Cat has identified the absolute best location from which to grow, and we applaud their long-term vision.”

St. Stephen Mayor Robert Hoffman echoed the enthusiasm for Top Cat’s decision. “Top Cat represents the future of homeland security – our nation’s first line of defense. We are proud to be home to this important manufacturing operation.”

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

“The main focus of this administration is creating jobs and raising the standard of living in South Carolina,” said Governor Mark Sanford. “We’ll continue to push for income tax relief and other reforms that further strengthen our business climate and make it even easier for high-end companies such as Top Cat who are looking to relocate to choose South Carolina as their new home.”

Top Cat Marine Security is a woman- and veteran-owned defense company, providing the latest in proven state-of-the-art maritime technology. The company’s website provides abundant information at www.topcatmarinesecurity.com.

The Charleston Regional Development Alliance represents Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties. Its mission is to broaden and diversify business investment in this region, with an emphasis on technology-intensive business sectors. Since its inception, the Alliance has facilitated more than 150 competitive expansions or relocations. To learn more, go to www.charleston-for-business.com.

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Alliance Media Contact:
Colleen Troy
843-577-7327
[email protected]

Company Contact:
Maryann Johnson
Top Cat Marine Security, Inc.
609-618-2661
[email protected]