Shimano American Corporation expands distribution operation

Within three years of opening its first local distribution center, Shimano American Corporation has announced an expanded presence in the Charleston region. The company recently completed construction of a 102,000-square-foot distribution facility in North Charleston’s Palmetto Commerce Park and will increase staff to 15 full-time positions. Shimano became fully operational at the new facility in early June.

Allen Johnston, Director of Operations for Shimano, said today’s announcement reflects the company’s success in the region since first locating here in October, 2003. “We had always hoped to bring additional product lines to our Charleston distribution center. Based on our very positive experience in this region, we followed through on those hopes.”

Johnston credits the Port of Charleston, strong rail and highway infrastructure, and the cooperation of local government for bringing this expansion to the Charleston region. The new facility will accommodate both Shimano’s bicycle component and fishing tackle lines, and will serve eastern U.S. customers as well as the eastern provinces of Canada. The company also considered several other eastern cities for this expansion project before selecting the Charleston region.

Today’s announcement was facilitated by the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, which works with companies considering multiple locations for expansion or relocation. Shimano’s original decision to locate here also was facilitated by the Alliance.

“We are pleased to welcome this additional investment by Shimano,” said William A. Finn, Chairman of the Alliance. “The fact that this internationally respected company is finding success in the Charleston region sends a powerful message to the marketplace.”

“A hearty thank you to Shimano as they expand their presence here in Charleston,” said Leon E. Stavrinakis, Chairman of Charleston County Council. “Abundant fishing and other outdoor recreation opportunities are such a big part of Charleston’s renowned quality of life, and our central East Coast location is pivotal for ocean-oriented international logistics. Shimano represents the ‘gold standard’ in both fishing and cycling products, and we’re proud to have the legacy of the Charleston name associated with the company’s stellar reputation.”

North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey also welcomed the news of Shimano’s expansion. “We work hard as a community to ensure that companies are successful and want to expand here, and the result is something we celebrate today. Successful companies reinvest locally,” he said.

In facilitating new investment for the region, the Alliance works with numerous organizations. An especially important partnership exists with the South Carolina Department of Commerce.

“We congratulate Allen Johnston and the Shimano American management team on this welcome expansion news for the state and the Charleston region,” said Secretary of Commerce Joe Taylor. “South Carolina has long been recognized by international companies as a great place to locate their growing businesses. Our Commerce Global Business Development group is committed to working with existing companies like Shimano and our regional economic development allies to create even more investment and job opportunities for our citizens.”

About Shimano
Shimano American Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Shimano, Inc., founded in 1921 and headquartered in Sakai City, Japan. Shimano ranks as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of bicycle parts and fishing tackle, as well as cold-forged products for the automobile and other industries. Shimano’s 30 facilities in 22 countries provide a global network for the sales and distribution of its products worldwide. The company currently employs more than 7,000 people, and in 2005, its gross sales were approximately $1.5 billion. Additional information can be found at www.shimano.com.

About the Charleston Regional Development Alliance
The Charleston Regional Development Alliance represents Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties with a mission to create improved opportunities for all residents within this three-county region. Working with a statewide network of allies, the Alliance markets Charleston to the world as a preferred location for business, and helps to facilitate new investment within the three-county area. To learn more, go to www.charleston-for-business.com.

Shimano Media Contact
Sue Allan
949-951-5003 x3121
[email protected]

Alliance Media Contact:
Karen Kuchenbecker
843-760-4534
[email protected]