Palmetto State News

Saltwater fishing boat manufacturer Sea Pro Boats is expanding operations in Newberry County that is expected to generate 50 jobs, Gov. Henry McMaster’s office announced earlier this month.

“Sea Pro Boats, LLC is pleased and excited to be part of a growing county that can offer many different employment options as well as produce a product for our customers that is of top quality and made with integrity,” Jimmy Hancock, Sea Pro Boats president, said in the governor's office release. “We pride ourselves in being a family-oriented business and treat our employees with respect and dignity while providing them with the satisfaction that they are manufacturing a well-built boat that will be around for a long time.”

McMaster congratulated the company on its $3.7 million expansion plans.

“Anytime a company is able to grow and expand its operations in our state, it serves as a victory for the local community, our workforce and the state of South Carolina,” he said in the office release.

Sea Pro Boats has been manufacturing center console fishing boats for more than 30 years. Its expansion at 25214 Highway 121 in Whitmire will increase its operating capacity to meet growing demand with a spring 2022 completion date, the governor's office release said.