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CHARLESTON, SC — DEC. 3, 2020 — Walmart broke ground today on its nearly 3-million-square-foot Walmart Ridgeville Import Distribution Center in Dorchester County, South Carolina.

Walmart is investing $220 million to build the direct import distribution center, creating approximately 1,000 full-time jobs. Construction is underway on the new storage and cross-dock facility in the Ridgeville Industrial Campus, which sits along Interstate 26. The distribution center, which was announced in July, will take approximately 14 months to build.

“Walmart’s $220 million investment is a vote of confidence in the hardworking people of South Carolina and our state’s business-friendly approach that attracts the world’s top companies,” Governor Henry McMaster said. “This investment and the 1,000 jobs that come with it will help continue our state’s tremendous economic success and change the lives of South Carolinians.”

The Walmart Ridgeville Import Distribution Center will supply several regional distribution centers, which will support approximately 850 Walmart and Sam’s Club stores across South Carolina and beyond.

“We found great partners in South Carolina, Dorchester County and SC Ports for our new, $220 million distribution center in Dorchester County, South Carolina,” said Greg Smith, Walmart’s executive vice president of supply chain. “SC Ports’ business mindset, efficient operations and shovel-ready site at the Ridgeville Commerce Park helped make this project a reality. SC Ports’ proven track record of handling high-demand supply chain needs for the automotive industry gives us full confidence in their ability to meet our retail distribution and e-commerce needs. We are excited about the impact this new distribution facility will have on the regional economy and how it will help us better serve customers across the Southeast.”

Walmart’s new distribution center in the Charleston region will grant access to the booming Southeast market and a world-class port. Once fully operational, the distribution center is expected to increase volumes at the Port of Charleston by 5%.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the groundbreaking of Walmart’s seventh import distribution center in Ridgeville, South Carolina,” SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome said. “We will support the investment by efficiently handling Walmart’s imported goods. Walmart is at the cutting-edge of supply chain sophistication and performance, and their confidence in us speaks volumes. This investment is a signal to the major retailers that we’re prepared to be a force in retail distribution and that we can handle their requirements.”

Gov. Henry McMaster, Walmart executives, SC Ports leaders, elected officials and other partners celebrated the groundbreaking of the Walmart Ridgeville Import Distribution Center today at a small, socially distant event held outside at SC Ports headquarters in Mount Pleasant.

This successful project was made possible with great partners, including Walmart, SC Ports, Gov. McMaster, the S.C. Department of Commerce, Dorchester County, the S.C. Legislature and the Congressional delegation.

“Walmart’s $220 million investment into a new, near-port distribution center is tremendous news for the Charleston region and SC Ports,” SC Ports Board Chairman Bill Stern said. “Having this world-class company choose our market for its retail distribution center showcases South Carolina as an ideal place for retail companies to do business.”

SC Ports purchased the 1,000-acre Ridgeville Industrial Campus in 2018 with the goal of creating a site for port-dependent businesses to locate. The U.S. Department of Transportation recently awarded SC Ports a nearly $22 million grant to build infrastructure at the site for current and future tenants. Walmart is the site’s first tenant.

In support of the Walmart project, SC Ports preserved a 325-acre parcel of land within the Timothy Creek and Four Holes Swamp Watershed, both of which have been identified as priority areas for conservation. This important conservation project was done through a partnership between SC Ports, Lowcountry Land Trust and Open Space Institute.

Notable quotes:

“I am very appreciative of Walmart locating a new distribution facility in Dorchester County. We have much to celebrate as construction begins on their 3-million-square-foot distribution center, which will boost port volumes by 5%. It is yet another example of how the Port of Charleston drives South Carolina’s economy. Bringing in more cargo through the Port of Charleston is crucial to our state’s growth. The SC Ports Authority is the backbone of our state’s economy, with port operations creating 1 in 10 jobs for South Carolinians. This new facility will create even more positive economic activity in the region and is terrific news for all of South Carolina. Walmart represents a business model breakthrough for the port, enabling the port to harness growth opportunities that, just months ago, didn’t seem possible. This growth reinforces the importance of deepening Charleston Harbor to 52 feet, which we will achieve in 2021.” — U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham

“I am thrilled to celebrate the groundbreaking of Walmart’s 3-million-square-foot distribution center in Dorchester County. This investment and the 1,000 new jobs it creates are more results of 25 years of work to fund and expand the Lake Marion Regional Water Agency. I look forward to Walmart's continued investment in this community for years to come." — Congressman Jim Clyburn

“It is an exciting day as South Carolina partners with Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, on its new distribution center in Dorchester County, South Carolina. This $220 million investment will create nearly 1,000 full-time jobs for South Carolinians and boost volumes at SC Ports by 5%. We are proud of the role South Carolina will play in Walmart’s supply chain, bringing goods to communities across the Southeast.”— U.S. Sen. Tim Scott

“Folks should understand that this is not a typical distribution facility. Walmart has only a few of these large hubs in the entire country, and when completed, this one will be among its largest. These are quality jobs in a dynamic and important industry, jobs that improve employees’ quality of life, and in turn provide other Americans with everyday necessities — and during the pandemic we’ve all come to appreciate just how necessary these goods are.” — Sen. Larry Grooms, Chairman, Senate Transportation Committee and Port Oversight Commission

“During what has been a challenging year, I am happy to be celebrating a $220 million investment that will bring economic prosperity to the region and further support growth at South Carolina Ports. Walmart’s new distribution center in Dorchester County will create 1,000 full-time jobs for Lowcountry residents.” — S.C. Sen. Sean Bennett

“It’s a banner day in Dorchester County as we celebrate the groundbreaking of Walmart’s new direct import distribution center. With our state’s prime geographic location, superior infrastructure assets and strong partnerships, South Carolina offers unparalleled logistical advantages. Congratulations to Walmart on this exciting milestone, and we look forward to watching them succeed within our borders for years to come.” — Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“We are thrilled to welcome Walmart’s 3-million-square-foot 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 SC Ports. We are grateful for Walmart’s faith in the county, and excited for the new jobs this project will bring to our community.” — Dorchester County Council Chairman George Bailey

“Walmart’s $220 million investment into a new distribution center is a monumental win for the Lowcountry, especially during an economically difficult year. Walmart will create 1,000 jobs — a huge win for Dorchester County. Walmart’s confidence in South Carolina, Dorchester County and SC Ports sends a great message to companies looking to do business here.” — Dorchester County Economic Development Director John Truluck

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 www.scspa.com.

CHARLESTON, SC — DEC. 1, 2020 — South Carolina Ports Authority awarded $61,000 in grants to 55 S.C. charitable organizations through its annual Community Giving Program.

SC Ports dedicates a portion of its revenues each year to support charitable organizations in local communities in which the port operates in South Carolina. SC Ports awarded $2,500 and $1,000 grants for the fiscal year 2021 Community Giving Program.

The Community Giving Program is especially important this year as the ongoing global pandemic has caused great economic hardship for many, putting further demands on nonprofits.

“The SC Ports team believes strongly in giving back by partnering with organizations that know their communities’ needs and are already doing the important work to make a difference in South Carolina,” SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome said. “We are in awe of the work these charitable groups do, and we are incredibly proud to play a small role in making a positive impact with them.”

Many of this year’s Community Giving Program grant recipients — such as Fresh Future Farm, Fields to Families, East Cooper Meals on Wheels and The Green Heart Project — work to fight hunger and address food deserts by providing meals, urban gardens and affordable healthy grocery options in their communities.

With one in eight people and one in six children struggling with hunger in South Carolina, SC Ports has focused much of its community efforts this year on addressing food insecurity. In addition to the Community Giving Program grants, SC Ports donated $22,000 to Lowcountry Food Bank this summer, and partnered with the CMA CGM Group and The Salvation Army to distribute 500 meals for Thanksgiving.

Other recipients do the important work of positively supporting and impacting youth across South Carolina, including Reading Partners South Carolina, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry, Kids On Point, Louie's Kids, Dillon County First Steps and Jasper County First Steps, among others.

Several recipients — like the Greenville Tech Foundation, Spartanburg Community College Foundation and Gullah Geechee Initiative Foundation Inc. — received funding for their Commercial Driver’s License training programs. The workforce development initiatives provide vital jobs skills for motor carriers, which are crucial to the success of SC Ports’ operations.

Some recipients — such as Friends of Coastal South Carolina and Wounded Nature - Working Veterans — work to preserve, protect and enhance South Carolina’s natural resources and ecosystems. SC Ports consistently partners with environmental groups in an effort to bring lasting environmental successes to the region.

Grant applicants must clearly fit within one of the following focus areas: maritime commerce, economic development, environmental awareness and community outreach. Programs with measurable, sustained impacts receive priority during the selection process.

Fiscal Year 2021 Community Giving recipients:

• A Backpack Journalist
• Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired SC
• Be A Mentor
• Beaufort-Jasper YMCA of the Lowcountry
• Begin With Books
• Berkeley Chamber of Commerce
• Beyond Our Walls
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry
• Bridges for End-of-Life
• Camp Discovery
• Camp Happy Days
• Camp Rise Above
• Carolina Youth Development Center
• Charleston Area Senior Citizens' Services Inc.
• Children's Cancer Partners of the Carolinas
• Clemson Cooperative Extension Service
• Communities In Schools of Greenville
• Communities In Schools of the Charleston Area
• Dillon County First Steps
• Dorchester Economic Development Corporation
• East Cooper Community Outreach
• East Cooper Meals on Wheels
• Fields to Families
• First Tee Greater Charleston
• Fresh Future Farm
• Friends of Coastal South Carolina
• Georgetown County Family YMCA
• Gibbes Museum of Art
• Greenville Tech Foundation
• Gullah Geechee Initiative Foundation Inc.
• Healing Farms
• Help 4 Kids Florence
• Humanities Foundation
• Jasper County First Steps
• Junior Achievement of Greater SC
• Kids On Point
• Louie's Kids
• Love Feeds
• Lowcountry Legal Volunteers
• Lowcountry Maritime School
• Meals On Wheels of Summerville Inc.
• My Sister's House
• Orangeburg County Community of Character
• Palmetto Leadership Dillon County Alumni
• Reading Partners South Carolina
• SC Future Makers
• SC School for the Deaf and the Blind Foundation
• South Carolina Aquarium
• South Carolina Operation Lifesaver
• Spartanburg Community College Foundation
• The Green Heart Project
• Trident Literacy Association
• United Ministries
• Wings for Kids
• Wounded Nature - Working Veterans

Fiscal Year 2020 Community Giving outcomes

Community Giving recipients complete outcome surveys at the end of the fiscal year to be eligible for funding in the next giving cycle. The surveys allow SC Ports to measure the positive lasting impacts of the grant program and fulfill its mission to be a strong community partner.

SC Ports awarded $128,500 in grants to 71 charitable organizations in fiscal year 2020.

Impacts of the funding include:

• 58,316 South Carolina students benefitted from Community Giving grants.
• 9,732 people received disaster assistance.
• 10,145 students participated in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) activities.
• 6,335 people were educated about environmental sustainability.
• 5,220 people received job-skills training.

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 www.scspa.com.

CHARLESTON, SC – NOV. 24, 2020 – SC Ports is proud to partner with the CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics, and The Salvation Army of Charleston to distribute more than 500 Thanksgiving meals to those in need in the Lowcountry.

Volunteers from CMA CGM, SC Ports and the Salvation Army distributed more than 80 meal boxes — which should serve up to 500 meals — helping to make the holidays brighter for families during an incredibly difficult year. Each meal box was packed and prepared with food to support families on Thanksgiving Day and beyond.

“We appreciate CMA CGM spearheading this great initiative and inviting us to collaborate,” SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome said. “The pandemic has caused hardships for so many, and it is very meaningful to the SC Ports team to support our community in partnership with the CMA CGM Group and The Salvation Army. We hope these meals provide a little comfort and happiness for families during Thanksgiving.”

This event is part of CMA CGM’s Giving Across America campaign to feed more than 35,000 Americans this Thanksgiving. In partnership with local ports and charitable organizations nationwide, the Group is donating and distributing 10,000 turkeys and thousands of meals in several cities, including: Charleston; Houston; Lake Charles, La.; Los Angeles; Nashville; Norfolk, Va.; and Savannah, Ga.

“CMA CGM plays a critical role in driving the U.S. economy forward, and it is an honor to be able to give back to communities across America, especially during such a challenging time,” said Ed Aldridge, president of CMA CGM America and American President Lines North America. “Our partnership with SC Ports and The Salvation Army of Charleston enabled us to bring Thanksgiving meals to those in need in the Charleston region, and it was an honor to do so.”

This campaign is part of CMA CGM’s continued commitment to the U.S. In the past few months, the Group has also provided critical supplies to several Louisiana communities impacted by Hurricane Laura and provided much-needed firefighting equipment to support relief efforts for the recent California wildfires.

This initiative is also aligned with SC Ports’ efforts to make a positive impact in South Carolina, particularly around food insecurity, environmental initiatives, health and education.

Over the past year, SC Ports has donated $22,000 to the Lowcountry Food Bank, raised $108,000 for the American Heart Association’s 2020 Lowcountry Heart Walk, and awarded $128,500 to charitable organizations through the 2019 Community Giving Program.

SC Ports also collaborated with Wounded Nature – Working Veterans on an oyster restoration project on Drum Island and donated radiators for a recycling initiative with the City of Charleston’s Keep Charleston Beautiful, as part of Trident United Way’s Day of Caring.

About CMA CGM

Led by Rodolphe Saadé, the CMA CGM Group is a world leader in shipping and logistics. Its 500 vessels serve more than 420 ports across five continents around the world and carried nearly 22 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in 2019. CMA CGM is constantly innovating to offer customers new maritime, inland and logistics solutions. Present on every continent and in 160 countries through its network of 755 offices and 750 warehouses, the Group employs more than 110,000 people worldwide, of which 2,400 are in Marseille where its head office is located.

About The Salvation Army of Charleston, SC

Meeting the needs of people in the name of Jesus Christ is the heart of The Salvation Army’s work. We open our arms to serve people who are most desperate for physical, emotional, and spiritual care. Because human needs differ from state to state, city to city, and person to person, we find local solutions through support from the local community. Together, we feed, we shelter, we mentor, we rehabilitate, we rescue victims of human trafficking, we help disaster survivors, we provide hope. We do the most good whenever and wherever we are needed.

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 www.scspa.com and read the 2020 Annual Report.

CHARLESTON, SC — NOV. 9, 2020 — South Carolina Ports’ October volumes show an ongoing recovery and strength in containers, vehicles and inland ports.

“Our business continues to rebound with better-than-expected volumes in the container and vehicle segments, as well as with a record October at our inland ports,” SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome said. “Our ongoing efforts to recruit more cargo to SC Ports will further drive growth.”

SC Ports handled 216,196 twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs) at Wando Welch and North Charleston container terminals in October, down less than 1% year-over-year. SC Ports has handled 797,108 TEUs thus far in fiscal year 2021, which began July 1.

SC Ports moved 119,986 pier containers — which account for cargo boxes of any size — in October, for a total of 443,481 pier containers handled fiscal-year-to-date.

Vehicles remain a strong segment for SC Ports as 20,637 vehicles rolled across the docks of Columbus Street Terminal in October, down less than 2% year-over-year. Vehicle volumes are up more than 18% this fiscal year, with 93,681 vehicles handled since July.

SC Ports’ two rail-served inland ports had a record October with a combined total of 16,404 rail moves. Inland Port Greer reported 12,935 rail moves, up 9.2% year-over-year, and Inland Port Dillon reported 3,469 rail moves, up nearly 40% from last year.

SC Ports’ efficient operations, big-ship capabilities and inland ports have attracted new business to the port this year. Michelin will use Inland Port Greer to move cargo for its 3-million-square-foot distribution center in the Upstate, and Walmart is preparing to build a 3-million-square-foot distribution center in Dorchester County.

“Retail companies are seeing explosive growth during the pandemic, and this boom presents a great opportunity for SC Ports,” Newsome said. “We are pros at handling high-demand supply chain needs for the automotive and advanced manufacturing industry, which will translate seamlessly into supporting retail distribution.”

In addition to growing the cargo base, SC Ports is also investing in port infrastructure to handle more cargo and bigger ships. Upgrades to Wando Welch Terminal are ongoing, the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project is progressing toward 52 feet, and the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal is on track to open in March.

The Leatherman Terminal recently received its first cargo-handling equipment with the arrival of five ship-to-shore cranes with 169 feet of lift height above the wharf deck, as well as four hybrid, rubber-tired gantry cranes.

“It is always one of our most exciting times to see major equipment infrastructure arrive in Charleston,” Newsome said. “These tall cranes will be a significant addition to the Charleston skyline and will serve as a reminder for all in the area of the importance of what we do.”

CHARLESTON, SC – NOV. 3, 2020 – SC Ports received three new ship-to-shore cranes and four hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes today at the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal in North Charleston.

The arrival of new cargo-handling equipment on the site is a huge milestone for SC Ports’ Leatherman Terminal, which is on schedule to open in March.

With today’s delivery, all five ship-to-shore cranes have arrived at the Leatherman Terminal. The new ship-to-shore cranes have 169 feet of lift height above the wharf deck and an outreach of 228 feet, enabling them to work the biggest container ships calling on the East Coast.

The first four hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes for the Leatherman Terminal also arrived today. The new RTG cranes are the largest in SC Ports’ fleet, measuring 88 feet tire-to-tire and able to handle containers stacked six high.

“The arrival of cargo-handling equipment at the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal is a big moment for SC Ports,” SC Ports COO Barbara Melvin said. “These state-of-the-art ship-to-shore-cranes will work some of the largest container ships on the East Coast when we launch operations at the Leatherman Terminal in March, while our hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes will also ensure efficient operations for our customers.”

The cranes were fabricated by Shanghai-based ZPMC and then disassembled for the journey to Charleston.

The first two ship-to-shore cranes arrived on the Zhen Hua 36 last week; they have since been offloaded from the vessel onto the Leatherman Terminal wharf.

The three additional ship-to-shore cranes and four rubber-tired gantry cranes arrived in Charleston Sunday morning on the Zhen Hua 24.

The vessel docked at Columbus Street Terminal for two days so the cranes could be reconfigured to fit under the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge before traveling up the Cooper River early this morning to the Leatherman Terminal.

Once the cranes are offloaded onto the Leatherman Terminal, the ZPMC USA team will erect, commission and test the cranes over several months before they become operational.

The cranes will then stand on the new 1,400-foot wharf, ready to load and unload cargo boxes from container ships when Phase One of the Leatherman Terminal opens in March.

“The Leatherman Terminal is designed to handle 19,000-TEU vessels, which sets South Carolina up to handle more cargo and remain globally competitive,” SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome said. “We have invested more than $2 billion in our infrastructure to ensure we have ample capacity and big-ship capabilities to serve our customers for decades to come. The opening of the Leatherman Terminal is a crucial part of our infrastructure investments. Tomorrow is here.”

Phase One of the Leatherman Terminal will have a 1,400-foot wharf, five ship-to-shore cranes, a 47-acre container yard, and 25 hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes.

Phase One will add 700,000 TEUs of annual throughput capacity to the Port of Charleston. At full build-out, the three-berth terminal will double SC Ports’ current capacity by adding 2.4 million TEUs of throughput capacity.

The $1 billion Phase One of the Leatherman Terminal complements efforts to modernize Wando Welch Terminal and deepen Charleston Harbor to 52 feet. These investments will enable SC Ports to handle four 14,000-TEU vessels simultaneously in 2021.

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 www.scspa.com.

CHARLESTON, SC — NOV. 2, 2020 — SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome received the BlueCross BlueShield Outstanding Manufacturing Lifetime Service Award for his dedication to supporting South Carolina’s advanced manufacturing sector.

SC Biz News and the South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership honored Newsome with the prestigious award during SC Biz News’ annual S.C. Manufacturing Conference and Expo, which was held virtually this year. The S.C. Manufacturing Extension Partnership honored Newsome and 30 S.C. companies during the 23rd annual Manufacturing Excellence Awards.

Newsome has served as president and CEO of SC Ports since 2009, during which he has worked to ensure the Port of Charleston remains globally competitive as a top 10 U.S. container port.

He has successfully pursued vital infrastructure projects and harbor deepening, significantly grown port operations and doubled cargo volumes over the past decade.

“The success of the port has been inextricably linked to the success of manufacturing in South Carolina,” Newsome said. “Our port has doubled cargo volumes over the past 10 years based on the doubling of advanced manufacturing jobs in the state. That’s really a testament to the many companies that manufacture day in and day out in South Carolina. I am proud that SC Ports has played a role in this growth, and I appreciate this wonderful recognition.”

Advanced manufacturers — such as BMW Manufacturing Co. and Michelin — rely on SC Ports to quickly move raw materials, parts and finished products.

During the first quarter of fiscal year 2021, SC Ports handled more than 73,000 vehicles for automakers, up 25% year-over-year.

SC Ports has decades of experience and expertise in moving goods for manufacturers who operate just-in-time production facilities.

“We are pros at handling high-demand supply chain needs for the automotive and advanced manufacturing industry, which will translate seamlessly into supporting retail distribution,” Newsome said. “The manufacturing industry really taught us how to be an incredibly reliable port."

BMW’s growth in the Upstate spurred the opening of Inland Port Greer, an inland terminal that connects the Upstate to the Port of Charleston via overnight rail. BMW was the anchor customer when Inland Port Greer opened in 2013. SC Ports now operates two rail-served inland ports in Greer and Dillon, S.C., enabling the efficient movement of goods around the Southeast and beyond.

Newsome said that cargo growth related to the manufacturing sector also supports SC Ports’ investments in big-ship infrastructure, such as building Phase One of the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal, which opens in March.

“SC Ports offers ample capacity and reliable operations for companies needing to move cargo between South Carolina and global markets,” SC Ports Board Chairman Bill Stern said. “Jim’s excellent leadership abilities at SC Ports have made a tremendous impact on South Carolina.”

Watch SC Ports CEO Jim Newsome receive his award.

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 www.scspa.com.

CHARLESTON, SC — NOV. 2, 2020 — SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome received the BlueCross BlueShield Outstanding Manufacturing Lifetime Service Award for his dedication to supporting South Carolina’s advanced manufacturing sector.

SC Biz News and the South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership honored Newsome with the prestigious award during SC Biz News’ annual S.C. Manufacturing Conference and Expo, which was held virtually this year. The S.C. Manufacturing Extension Partnership honored Newsome and 30 S.C. companies during the 23rd annual Manufacturing Excellence Awards.

Newsome has served as president and CEO of SC Ports since 2009, during which he has worked to ensure the Port of Charleston remains globally competitive as a top 10 U.S. container port.

He has successfully pursued vital infrastructure projects and harbor deepening, significantly grown port operations and doubled cargo volumes over the past decade.

“The success of the port has been inextricably linked to the success of manufacturing in South Carolina,” Newsome said. “Our port has doubled cargo volumes over the past 10 years based on the doubling of advanced manufacturing jobs in the state. That’s really a testament to the many companies that manufacture day in and day out in South Carolina. I am proud that SC Ports has played a role in this growth, and I appreciate this wonderful recognition.”

Advanced manufacturers — such as BMW Manufacturing Co. and Michelin — rely on SC Ports to quickly move raw materials, parts and finished products.

During the first quarter of fiscal year 2021, SC Ports handled more than 73,000 vehicles for automakers, up 25% year-over-year.

SC Ports has decades of experience and expertise in moving goods for manufacturers who operate just-in-time production facilities.

“We are pros at handling high-demand supply chain needs for the automotive and advanced manufacturing industry, which will translate seamlessly into supporting retail distribution,” Newsome said. “The manufacturing industry really taught us how to be an incredibly reliable port."

BMW’s growth in the Upstate spurred the opening of Inland Port Greer, an inland terminal that connects the Upstate to the Port of Charleston via overnight rail. BMW was the anchor customer when Inland Port Greer opened in 2013. SC Ports now operates two rail-served inland ports in Greer and Dillon, S.C., enabling the efficient movement of goods around the Southeast and beyond.

Newsome said that cargo growth related to the manufacturing sector also supports SC Ports’ investments in big-ship infrastructure, such as building Phase One of the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal, which opens in March.

“SC Ports offers ample capacity and reliable operations for companies needing to move cargo between South Carolina and global markets,” SC Ports Board Chairman Bill Stern said. “Jim’s excellent leadership abilities at SC Ports have made a tremendous impact on South Carolina.”

Watch SC Ports CEO Jim Newsome receive his award.

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 www.scspa.com.

CHARLESTON, SC – OCT. 26, 2020 – SC Ports received two new ship-to-shore cranes today, marking the first cargo-handling equipment to arrive for the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal, which is under construction in North Charleston, S.C.

When the terminal opens in March, it will be outfitted with some of the tallest cranes on the East Coast. The cranes will have 169 feet of lift height above the wharf deck and an outreach of 228 feet, enabling them to work the biggest container ships calling on the East Coast.

The cranes, fabricated by Shanghai-based ZPMC, arrived at Columbus Street Terminal on the Zhen Hua 36 this afternoon. They are the first two of five ship-to-shore cranes to arrive for the Leatherman Terminal.

The cranes, which were disassembled for the journey, will remain at Columbus Street Terminal for about two days to be reconfigured to fit under the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge.

They will then make their way up the Cooper River to the Leatherman Terminal. Upon arrival, the ZPMC USA team will erect, commission and test the cranes over several months before they become operational.

The cranes will then stand on the new 1,400-foot wharf, ready to load and unload cargo boxes from container ships when Phase One operations launch in March.

“It is with great pride and excitement that SC Ports welcomes the first two ship-to-shore cranes for the Leatherman Terminal,” SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome said. “The Leatherman Terminal is designed to handle 19,000-TEU vessels, giving SC Ports great capacity and big-ship capabilities to serve our customers. We look forward to welcoming the first ship at the Leatherman Terminal in March.”

The Zhen Hua 24 is carrying the second shipment of three ship-to-shore cranes, as well as four hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes. This shipment is scheduled to arrive Tuesday, Nov. 3.

“The arrival of our new ship-to-shore cranes for the Leatherman Terminal is an incredible moment for SC Ports,” SC Ports COO Barbara Melvin said. “These cranes will soon be working the largest container ships on the East Coast at our state-of-the-art container terminal. Our SC Ports engineering team, our great partnership with ZPMC, and the unmatched collaboration with our project partners have made this possible.”

Phase One of the Leatherman Terminal will have a 1,400-foot wharf, five ship-to-shore cranes with 169 feet of lift height above the wharf deck, and 25 hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes.

Phase One will add 700,000 TEUs of annual throughput capacity to the Port of Charleston. At full build-out, the three-berth terminal will double S.C. Ports’ current capacity by adding 2.4 million TEUs of throughput capacity.

The $1 billion Phase One of the Leatherman Terminal complements efforts to modernize Wando Welch Terminal and deepen Charleston Harbor to 52 feet. These investments will enable SC Ports to handle four 14,000-TEU vessels simultaneously in 2021.

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 www.scspa.com.