Meiden America Switchgear, Inc. (MAS) has announced a $9.2 million expansion of its operations in Laurens County, South Carolina. The investment is expected to create 43 new jobs and will involve expanding the company’s existing production facility in Gray Court by 37,000 square feet. The company also plans to increase its office space by 7,500 square feet.
MAS, established in 2020 and headquartered in Gray Court, specializes in the design, manufacture, testing, and sale of high-voltage vacuum circuit breakers and vacuum interrupters. The company is a subsidiary of Meidensha Corporation, a Tokyo-based manufacturer that has been producing high-voltage vacuum circuit breakers for over 50 years.
The expansion will allow MAS to add several new product lines for the North American market and begin manufacturing and distributing 123 kV breakers to support electric power utility partners and original equipment manufacturers in the region. The project is scheduled for completion in May 2026.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits for the project and has awarded a $150,000 Set-Aside grant to Laurens County to help with site preparation and building construction.
“We’re excited to invest in our people, our products and Laurens County. This expansion reflects our dedication to innovation, our commitment to help our customers reduce their environmental impact and strengthen the electrical grid of the U.S. and Canada. It also positions us to meet increasing demand,” said Meiden America Switchgear, Inc. President Hiro Takeshita.
Governor Henry McMaster commented on the announcement: “Meiden America Switchgear, Inc.’s $9.2 million investment in Laurens County creating 43 new jobs is further proof that South Carolina companies thrive in our strong business climate. When a company that was founded in our state chooses to expand, it shows the value of the partnerships we have built and the confidence employers have in our people.”
Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III stated: “Congratulations to Meiden America Switchgear, Inc. on continuing to build its legacy in South Carolina. The company’s additional investment and job creation in Laurens County is a testament to the state’s healthy business climate, and we’re excited to see MAS grow.”
Laurens County Council Chairman Jeff Carroll added: “Laurens County continues to be a place where business thrives. We would like to congratulate Meiden America Switchgear, Inc. on their success and continued growth. They are a very valuable member of our corporate community, and we look forward to continuing our partnership into the future.”
MAS is located at 2200 N. Old Laurens Road in Gray Court. Those interested in employment opportunities with MAS are encouraged to visit the company’s careers page.
