By SCBIZ Staff

BEAUFORT -- Greenline Industries Inc., a manufacturer of wood products for major building industries, celebrated its grand opening last week, nearly a year after its doors first opened.

The delay was at the request of the owner who moved the business into the 55,000-square-foot former Vanguard building near the Marine Corps Air Station that had been vacant for several years. He wanted to complete renovations to the façade and landscaping before hosting a grand opening.

To date, the company has hired 22 employees and has invested $250,000 in upgrades to the building’s façade and landscape. The plant produces hardwood plywood, lumber and exotic veneers for the marine, kitchen, store fixture, architectural and office furniture industries.

Charles R. Mikals, president of Greenline Industries, said having access to a local, skilled work force was a positive first step in his relocation efforts. Mikals has plans to create 25 additional jobs within the next year. 

“I am making plans to partner with the Technical College of the Lowcountry to train a work force for the remaining positions,” Mikals said.

Beaufort County Councilman Gerald Dawson praised Greenline for bringing employment opportunities to the area that offer above-average wages rates and allow residents to work close to their homes and families. 

“Not only has Mr. Mikals re-employed Beaufort County residents, but he has also improved the Highway 21 corridor by giving his building a ‘face-lift,’” Dawson said.

In 2006, Mikals was recognized by Gov. Mark Sanford as a South Carolina Ambassador for Economic Development because of his investment and job creation in Beaufort County.

Greenline has more than 130 employees nationwide and a branch in Ontario, Canada. The company is family-owned and has been in business for 30 years.