Port, strong economy help attract company specializing in natural stone, granite, and marble

June 9, 2003 – A company that imports and distributes natural stone products from Spain, Italy, Brazil and India will soon open its doors in Dorchester County’s McQueen Industrial Park. Classic Granite & Marble plans to invest $500,000 and create up to 10 new jobs in a move facilitated by the Charleston Regional Development Alliance.

Waco Garrett, Owner and President, noted that the company also considered Charlotte, N.C. for this new operation. “But Charleston was a better fit for many reasons,” he said. “With direct access to the Port of Charleston and an established network of local contractors, it made economic sense to locate here. We were also attracted by the robust economy and continued growth of residential construction in the Charleston area.”

Based in Elberton, Georgia, Classic Granite & Marble supplies residential and commercial contractors with granite, marble and other natural stones used primarily for kitchen countertops, fireplace mantels, bathroom vanities, and shower and tub surrounds. The new operation will service customers within a 150-mile radius from Summerville, including Savannah, Columbia and Wilmington.

“We are always pleased to see companies benefit from this region’s robust port and healthy economy,” said Gene Williams, chairman of the Charleston Regional Development Alliance. “Our welcome goes out to Classic Granite & Marble as they join our growing community of successful businesses.”

Randy Scott, Dorchester County Council Chairman, also welcomed the company and its new operation. “In Dorchester County, we pride ourselves in helping companies exceed their goals. We expect that the caliber of employees you’ll find here, and the level of support provided by our community, will help you in building a successful business.”

“We are committed to working with responsible companies of all sizes,” said Willie Davis, Vice Chairman of Dorchester County Council. “Our economic development team is focused on creating new opportunities for all our residents. The new jobs provided by Classic Granite & Marble are of great value to Dorchester County.”

George Tupper, who chairs the Dorchester County Economic Development Board, noted that the entire region worked together to create a winning environment for Classic Granite & Marble. “This company could have chosen to locate in any number of locations. Today’s announcement is a win not only for Dorchester County, but for the entire tri-county region.”

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]

Company Contact:
Waco Garrett
Owner & President
Classic Granite & Marble