Hydrite Chemical Co., a manufacturer and distributor of chemical solutions, has announced plans to expand its operations in Laurens County, South Carolina. The company will invest $63 million in the project, which is expected to create 13 new jobs.
Founded in 1929, Hydrite provides sustainable solutions for food safety, water cleanliness, and plant health through its Food & Beverage Solutions, Manufactured Solutions, and Agriculture & Sulfur Solutions business units. In addition to its Laurens County facility, Hydrite operates manufacturing sites, warehouses, and laboratories across several states including California, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Texas.
The expansion will take place at a 43-acre greenfield site located in Hunter Industrial Park in Laurens. This location will become the main hub for Hydrite’s Southeast regional operations and will incorporate the recently acquired Enterprise Specialty Products, Inc. The company plans to construct a 50,000-square-foot building that will house offices, laboratories, warehouses as well as spaces for operations and logistics related to chemical manufacturing and distribution. Operations are projected to begin in 2028.
To support the project’s site preparation and construction costs, the Coordinating Council for Economic Development has awarded Laurens County a $300,000 Set-Aside grant.
Hydrite CEO Kevin Honkamp stated: “Building on our recent acquisition of Enterprise Specialty Products, Inc. in Laurens County, we’re proud to deepen our roots in South Carolina with a new greenfield facility. The state’s exceptional business climate and talented workforce make it the right place to invest, create quality jobs and better serve customers across the Southeast and beyond. We are grateful for the support from South Carolina and look forward to being a long-term partner in the Laurens County community’s growth.”
Governor Henry McMaster commented: “Thanks to South Carolina’s strong business environment, companies like Hydrite Chemical Co. continue to find success in our state. We congratulate Hydrite on this expansion and look forward to the new opportunities this investment will create in Laurens County.” As governor since January 2017 with re-elections in 2018 and 2022 according to his official website, McMaster has focused on economic development among other priorities as detailed online. He serves as chief executive overseeing state government operations under constitutional authority.
Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III added: “Congratulations to Hydrite on expanding operations in Upstate South Carolina. The company’s $63 million investment in Laurens County demonstrates the Palmetto State’s continuing economic growth and development.”
Laurens County Council Chairman Jeff Carroll said: “Laurens County would like to thank Hydrite for expanding operations in our county. Their investment and job creation will have a tremendous impact on our community. We wish them much success and look forward to a long and prosperous relationship.”
Individuals interested in employment opportunities with Hydrite can visit the company’s careers page.
