Palmetto State News

Lift Technologies, Inc. (Lift-Tek), a material handling manufacturer and subsidiary of Cascade Corporation, has announced an expansion of its operations in Oconee County. This development involves a multimillion-dollar investment and is expected to generate 41 new jobs.

Established in 1999, Lift-Tek specializes in the design and manufacture of components such as masts, carriages, and fork positioners for the material handling sector. Their products have applications in various equipment including industrial trucks, automated guided vehicles, telehandlers, and forklifts.

The expansion project will add 110,000 square feet to Lift-Tek’s manufacturing facility located at 7040 South Highway 11 in Westminster, alongside updated production equipment. The expanded operations are projected to commence in January 2027. Interested individuals are encouraged to visit the company’s careers page for employment opportunities.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has sanctioned job development credits for this initiative and awarded a $100,000 Set-Aside grant to Oconee County to aid with site preparation and building construction costs.

“We are pleased to announce the expansion of the Lift-Tek manufacturing facility. This project will not only enhance operational capabilities but also reinforce Lift-Tek and Cascade’s commitment to innovation and growth. We look forward to the positive impact this expansion will have on the team and the community,” said Davide Roncari, Cascade Corporation and Lift-Tek President and CEO.

Governor Henry McMaster remarked, “Today’s announcement from Lift-Tek is another win for our state’s thriving advanced manufacturing industry. This impressive investment in Oconee County and the 41 jobs it will create reinforce Lift-Tek’s commitment to South Carolina, and we look forward to the company’s continued success in the community and beyond.”

Harry M. Lightsey III, Secretary of Commerce, said, “Lift-Tek’s decision to expand operations in Oconee County reflects the strength of South Carolina’s workforce and business-friendly environment. We are pleased to see Lift-Tek continuing to thrive in the Upstate and congratulate the company on this latest investment in our state.”

Senate President Thomas C. Alexander commented, “I am pleased that long-time community partner Lift-Tek has chosen to expand its existing operations, reaffirming their commitment to Oconee County and the state of South Carolina. As an integral part of our business community for decades, this significant investment will create 41 new jobs. This announcement is yet another testament to our remarkable workforce and the business climate we have in Oconee County and our state.”

Jamie Gilbert, Oconee Economic Alliance President and CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the investment, stating, “Oconee County couldn’t be more excited and appreciative that Lift-Tek has chosen to significantly invest and grow their Westminster facility. The expansion is a reflection of Oconee’s excellent business climate, skilled workforce and support the county provides to our existing industry. Lift-Tek and Oconee County have enjoyed an outstanding partnership for nearly 40 years, and we look forward to building on and continuing that relationship well into the future.”