Dorchester County, S.C., July 20, 2020 – Walmart has announced plans to build a $220 million distribution center in Dorchester County, near Ridgeville, South Carolina. The announcement was the culmination of an effort, supported by state, county and local officials, to strengthen Walmart’s supply chain network while creating more than 1,000 local full-time jobs.
“At a time when job creation is so vital, and - more than ever - our customers are relying on Walmart for the essentials they need during this unprecedented time, we are excited about the impact this new facility will have on the regional economy and how it will help us better serve customers across the Southeast,” said Greg Smith, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain for Walmart. “We found a great partner in the state of South Carolina and we’re grateful for the support we received from Dorchester County, the South Carolina Ports Authority, the Department of Commerce and so many others who helped make this project a reality.”
Once completed, the new storage and cross-dock facility will span nearly 3 million square feet. This direct import distribution center, which will take approximately 14 months to build, will supply several regional distribution centers supporting approximately 850 Walmart stores and Sam’s Clubs across South Carolina and beyond.
“Walmart has proven to be an exemplary partner that is committed to South Carolina and our citizens,” said South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster. “We couldn't be prouder that such an important and successful company has decided to invest in our people and create even more jobs for hardworking South Carolinians. We look forward to continuing this fruitful partnership and seeing all that it will mean to both Walmart and our state in the future.”
Once fully operational, the new distribution center is expected to increase volumes at the Port of Charleston by approximately 5%.
Notable quotes:
“Walmart is the recognized leader in supply chain innovation and performance. Having this world-class company choose our market for their distribution center is the ultimate vote of confidence in S.C. Ports and in South Carolina. Walmart’s investment will create jobs for South Carolinians and boost cargo volumes at the Port of Charleston. We are experts at moving goods just-in-time for global companies. We are thrilled to partner with Walmart to further their growth and impact for years to come.” - Jim Newsome, S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO
“Walmart’s decision to grow its South Carolina presence and build a new distribution center in Dorchester County is a tremendous reason to celebrate. This announcement speaks volumes to our state’s logistics advantages, infrastructure and business-friendly environment. We’re thrilled to have Walmart on the roster of renowned companies calling the Palmetto State home.” - Bobby Hitt, Secretary of the South Carolina Department of Commerce
“We are tickled to welcome Walmart’s newest distribution center to Western Dorchester County. A project such as this would not have been possible without the county’s long-term commitment to infrastructure improvements and our strong relationship with the S.C. Ports Authority. We are grateful for Walmart’s faith in the county and excited for the new jobs this project will bring to our community.” - George Bailey, Dorchester County Council Chairman
“The Charleston region is perfectly positioned for global distribution, offering prime access to one-third of the U.S. population and the deepest seaport on the East Coast. This historic announcement aligns with the One Region Global Competitiveness strategy, which identified distribution centers as vital to the growth of the region's advanced logistics sector. We are so pleased the company selected Dorchester County, and we wish them much success” - John Hagerty, Chairman of the Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board
About Walmart in South Carolina
Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) helps people around the world save money and live better – anytime and anywhere – in retail stores, online and through their mobile devices. In South Carolina we serve customers at 123 retail units and online through Walmart Online Grocery, http://Walmart.com and our family of brands. We are proud to employ more than 33,000 associates in South Carolina. Walmart supports local businesses, spending $1 billion with South Carolina suppliers in FYE 2019 and supporting more than 33,000 South Carolina supplier jobs. Walmart continues to be a leader in employment opportunity, sustainability, and corporate philanthropy. In FY19, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation contributed more than $22 million in cash and in-kind donations to local nonprofits in South Carolina. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting our corporate website and our Instagram, Facebook and Twitter channels.
Contact:
Walmart Media Relations
1.800.331.0085
news.walmart.com/reporter
About Dorchester County
Dorchester County’s close proximity to the ports of Charleston and Savannah, the Norfolk Southern Railroad, and numerous state and federal highways, combined with its natural beauty and unwavering sense of community, are what make it the best county in South Carolina to build a business and raise a family. For more information on Dorchester County, visit dorchestercountysc.gov.
About S.C. Department of Commerce
As South Carolina's leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. S.C. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Samsung, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. S.C. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. With a strong international footprint, the Palmetto State has consistently been among the top in the nation for attracting jobs through investment on a per capita basis. Additionally, the state has won the Gold or Silver Shovel Award from Area Development magazine every year since 2011. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.
About South Carolina Ports Authority
South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), established by the state’s General Assembly in 1942, owns and operates public seaport and intermodal facilities in Charleston, Dillon, Georgetown and Greer. As an economic development engine for the state, Port operations facilitate 225,000 statewide jobs and generate nearly $63.4 billion in annual economic activity. SCPA is soon to be home to the deepest harbor on the U.S. East Coast at 52 feet, and the Port is an industry leader in delivering speed-to-market, seamless processes and flexibility to ensure reliable operations, big ship handling, efficient market reach and environmental responsibility. For more information on SCPA, please visit scspa.com.