Tri-State Hydraulics announces plans for local operation

APRIL 28, 2005 – A company specializing in the manufacture, service and reconditioning of hydraulic components has made its first expansion from a Pennsylvania home base into the Charleston region. Today’s announcement by Tri-State Hydraulics, Inc. was facilitated by the Charleston Regional Development Alliance.

Founded in 1958, Tri-State Hydraulics has extensive experience in the design and manufacture of hydraulic components, specializing in systems for heavy industry, lumber and utilities. Tri-State will occupy a facility in Berkeley County’s Moncks Corner under the name Industrial Hydraulics of Charleston, located at 1054 N. Highway 17A, and expects to be operational by mid May. The company plans to create up to 12 new jobs.

In looking for expansion opportunities in the Southeast, the company also considered North Carolina before choosing to locate in the Charleston region. According to company officials, a growing base of customers in this region, plus a strong pool of skilled workers, were key in the decision.

“Our company has built a reputation on our ability to do precision work with very tight tolerances,” said James Palmer II, Vice President of Operations. “It was imperative that we locate in a community with a strong base of technically skilled workers. We are confident that the workforce here in Charleston is
uniquely suited to that challenge,” he said.

Dan Dennis, General Manager, noted that the Charleston region offers access to South Carolina’s growing industrial community. “We already have a strong customer base in the Charleston area, and see several opportunities for additional business throughout the state. We definitely will come in and hit the ground running.”

Ted Creech, chairman for the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, welcomed news of the expansion. “Our regional effort is focused on attracting companies that rely on technically skilled employees. As our region’s manufacturing base grows, we are becoming even more attractive to these high-end suppliers. With this expansion, I have no doubt that Tri-State will find an excellent environment for future growth.”

“Congratulations to Tri-State on their insightful decision,” said Jim Rozier, supervisor of Berkeley County. “The Charleston region’s manufacturing community will provide the company with a prime base of customers. And as our manufacturing community grows here, odds are good that Tri-State will expand as well. Our skilled and motivated workforce will provide Tri-State the edge, and Berkeley County will be there as the company’s long-term partner.”

In facilitating any announcement, such as today’s by Tri-State Hydraulics, the Alliance works with a broad network of allies and partner organizations. A key player in the economic development activity here is the State of South Carolina.

“When our state has an environment that’s good for business, it’s easier for a company like Tri-State Hydraulics to succeed and create jobs,” said Gov. Mark Sanford. “Jobs will continue to be this administration’s top priority, and we’re going to keep pushing pro-business reforms like additional income tax relief to make sure more announcements like this one are possible.”

“This technology-driven manufacturer is a perfect fit for the economy we’re building here in the Palmetto State,” said Commerce Secretary Bob Faith. “Also, we’re extremely pleased that this company recognized the success factors in South Carolina such as a highly skilled workforce, a central location to serve the growing Southeast, and a decidedly pro-business climate.”

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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Alliance Media Contact:
Natalie J. Lawrence
843-760-4523
[email protected]

Company Contact:
James Palmer II
V.P. Operations
724-483-1790