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GDC reports $57.4M in capital investment |
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Tuesday, 14 October 2008 |
By Francis B. Allgood
SCBIZ Daily Staff
GREER -- With three months left to report, the Greer Development Corp. has eclipsed last year’s $45 million in capital investment by more than $12 million.
“We’re closing out one of our most successful years in terms of carrying forth the brand of Greer,” said executive director Reno Deaton.
Sixteen projects were facilitated by GDC representing an estimated $57.4 million in capital investment. The companies are expected to create more than 360 jobs in the service, restaurant, retail, manufacturing and warehousing/distribution industries.
“The Commission of Public Works has planned for new growth and has invested in new infrastructure,” Deaton said.
The largest announcement came in September, when Lear Corp., an automotive supplier to BMW Manufacturing Co., announced plans to expand its Duncan facility. Lear plans to construct a building, invest $10.8 million and create 140 jobs.
The manufacturing sector represented the largest percentage (37%) of projects.
Meanwhile, GDC has worked with the Greer Station Association on a targeted marketing campaign for downtown. Some of the companies that have opened or moved to downtown this year include A Better Way Chiropractic, Absolute Wellness, Cafe Mundo, Dianna Ivey – Natural Health Coach, Direct Link, The Grapevine, Home Helpers, Know Thyself Healing Center and The Vintage Jewelry.
For the first nine months of 2008, GDC experienced a stronger rate of new inquiries, leads, prospects and projects compared to 2007. Activity from May-August, however, weakened, averaging about 21 fewer leads per month.
Deaton said he’s not concerned.
“We’ve got to continue to put our best foot forward,” he said.
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