Company investing more than $5 million to expand Lowcountry operations
Columbia, SC — AHT Cooling Systems USA, Inc., a provider of custom refrigerated and frozen merchandising solutions, is expanding its existing Charleston County facility by adding assembly and distribution operations. The project will result in more than $5 million in capital investment and lead to the creation of more than 70 new jobs.
With more than 30 years of experience, AHT Cooling Systems services the grocery and small format retail markets with manufacturing sites in Austria, China and Brazil. To establish its first production site in the U.S., the company is upfitting its Charleston County operations with a production business unit for the assembly of commercial refrigeration and freezing equipment.
Located at 7058 Weber Boulevard in Ladson, S.C., the facility’s new manufacturing operations will support management and logistics operations already in place. With the project anticipated for completion by the end of the year, hiring for the new positions is already underway.
For more information on joining the AHT team, visit www.ahtusa.net.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to this project.
Quotes
“It is an exciting time for our organization as we look to capitalize on the ever-changing retail market in North America. This expansion of our facility to support the production of our innovative plug-in Multideck portfolio clearly shows our commitment to the AHT Group’s growth plans, and will further strengthen our brand and position as a leading refrigeration manufacturer.” –AHT Group CEO Thomas Babacan
“Today, we celebrate the success of a company that already calls the Lowcountry home. AHT Cooling Systems’ decision to launch production operations and create more than 70 new jobs is a testament to the strength of our workforce and our competitive business climate here in South Carolina.” –Governor Henry McMaster
“South Carolina’s reputation for having a pro-business climate continues to spread around the world. I offer my congratulations to AHT Cooling Systems for expanding their operations and look forward to watching them continue to grow here.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt
“South Carolina Ports Authority congratulates AHT on their expanding facility and operations in the Lowcountry. We look forward to serving significant growth of their import needs through our deepwater harbor and modern, capable facilities.” –S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome
“We love it when our companies expand and grow. AHT Cooling has been a solid corporate citizen in North Charleston for many years, and we are obviously very excited as they embark on this newest chapter in the establishment of manufacturing operations at Palmetto Commerce Park. We believe that this new facility will be highly successful, and we look forward to partnering with AHT Cooling Systems in every way possible.” –Charleston County Council Chairman Victor Rawl
“We welcome AHT Cooling to Palmetto Commerce Park, adding to the City of North Charleston’s diverse and growing industry base. We are grateful for AHT Cooling’s investment in our city, and in turn, we commit to remain a business-friendly community devoted to fostering business growth.” –North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey
Five Fast Facts
- AHT Cooling Systems USA, Inc. is expanding operations in Charleston County.
- $5 million investment to create more than 70 new jobs.
- AHT Cooling Systems is a provider of a custom refrigerated and frozen merchandising solutions to grocery and supermarket retailers.
- The company’s Lowcountry facility is located at 7058 Weber Boulevard in Ladson, S.C.
- For information on joining the AHT team, visit www.ahtusa.net.
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. 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. 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, since 2011, South Carolina has ranked among top three in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign investment on a per capita basis, according to IBM-Plant Location International. Additionally, in five of seven years, the state has won the Gold Shovel Award from Area Development magazine. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.
