Sodecia Aapico Joint Venture has announced plans to establish its first South Carolina operation in Orangeburg County. The company will invest $120 million and expects to create up to 392 new jobs. The facility will support Scout Motors by manufacturing advanced ladder frames for SUV and truck models.
The joint venture brings together SODECIA, a global Tier 1 supplier headquartered in Portugal with operations in over 40 locations worldwide, and AAPICO, a publicly listed automotive parts manufacturer based in Thailand with more than three decades of experience. The new plant will be located at 4100 St. Matthews Road in Orangeburg and is expected to be completed by 2027.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits for the project. Companies interested in supplying Sodecia Aapico JV are encouraged to fill out an online interest form through the South Carolina Department of Commerce.
AAPICO CEO Mr. Swee Chuan Yeap stated, “We are thrilled to take this important step toward expanding our footprint in the United States. With our joint resources and the strong confidence that Scout Motors has placed in both companies, success is our only goal.”
SODECIA CEO Mr. Rui Monteiro added, “This project symbolizes the strength of collaboration. By combining the best of both companies, we are creating a world-class facility that will deliver value to our customer and long-term opportunities for the local community.”
Governor Henry McMaster commented on the announcement: “Today’s announcement by Sodecia Aapico JV is another clear vote of confidence in South Carolina’s world-class workforce, and it will further strengthen our booming automotive industry. This announcement is also the latest example of Scout Motors’ arrival driving additional investment and job creation across our state, bringing even more opportunities and prosperity for our people.”
Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III said, “South Carolina’s strong reputation as an automotive powerhouse continues attracting investments from global companies. We are thrilled to welcome Sodecia Aapico JV, along with this substantial $120 million investment, to Orangeburg County and look forward to building a partnership with the company as it launches its legacy in our state.”
Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright remarked, “Today is a strong moment for Orangeburg County. Sodecia Aapico JV bringing 392 new jobs and $120 million investment to our community means real opportunity for the people who live and work here. We appreciate companies that see value in Orangeburg County – our workforce, our location and our commitment to support industry. We welcome Sodecia Aapico JV and look forward to the positive impact this project will have for our residents.”
Tri-County Electric Cooperative CEO Chad Lowder said, “On behalf of our Board of Trustees and employees, I am excited to welcome Sodecia Aapico JV to the Tri-County Global Industrial Site. This project is a true game changer for the citizens of Orangeburg and surrounding counties. We look forward to working with the Sodecia Aapico JV team and its partners.”
Scout Motors President and CEO Scott Keogh stated: “This announcement marks another important milestone as we work to build a robust, local supply chain for Scout Motors and create meaningful opportunities for South Carolinians. By investing in Orangeburg County, the Sodecia Aapico joint venture is bringing hundreds of new local jobs, strengthening this state’s thriving automotive ecosystem, and reinforcing our shared commitment to making high-quality Scout vehicles right here in South Carolina. We’re grateful to our partners and to the community for embracing our vision of growth and opportunity.”
