Homanit breaks ground on first U.S. facility in Alcolu, SC
June 10, 2025
Leaders from across South Carolina gathered in Clarendon County on June 4 as Homanit GmbH & Co. KG broke ground on its first U.S. manufacturing facility. The $250 million investment by the German fiberboard manufacturer is expected to create 300 new jobs and drive long-term economic growth in the Central South Carolina region.
Held at the future site of the facility in Alcolu, the groundbreaking ceremony was emceed by Manning Mayor Julia Nelson and featured remarks from state and local leaders:
- Annie Caggiano, Director of Global Business Development, S.C. Department of Commerce
- Senator Jeffrey Zell
- Representative Fawn Pedalino
- Commissioner Hugh Weathers, S.C. Department of Agriculture
- Scott Phillips, State Forester, S.C. Forestry Commission
- Fritz Homann, CEO, Homanit GmbH & Co. KG
- John Johnson III, Chairman, Clarendon County Council
The speakers emphasized the collaborative spirit and strategic assets that made the project possible, from Clarendon County’s available industrial land and skilled labor force to its deep-rooted forestry and agribusiness sectors.
“Agribusiness is the largest contributor to South Carolina’s economy. The fact that we grow things here, and then add value to them, adds more to our economy than any sector,” said South Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers. “The efforts and resources that have been invested to attract companies in the agriculture and forestry industries allow us to reinvest in South Carolina.”
That same commitment to adding value to South Carolina’s natural resources is reflected in the state’s forestry sector, which will play a key role in supporting Homanit’s operations.
Homanit’s new facility will be constructed on a 125-acre site in Alcolu and will produce medium-density and high-density wood fiberboard used in the automotive, furniture, door and coating industries. The company cited the region’s strong workforce, favorable business climate, and support from state and local partners as key factors in its decision to locate in South Carolina.
Fritz Homann, CEO of Homanit, expressed his gratitude to local leaders and economic development partners for their support, stating that the groundbreaking marks the beginning of a long-term relationship with the community.
Construction is now underway at the Alcolu manufacturing facility, located at 1200 Spigner Road, with operations anticipated to begin in 2028. For more information about Homanit, including job opportunities, visit homanit.org/en/career/jobs/.
