WiJo Pouches North America, Inc., a Swedish manufacturer of modern oral pouches, has announced plans to establish its first North American manufacturing facility in Lexington County, South Carolina. The company is investing $13.5 million in the project and expects to create 170 new jobs.
The facility will be located at 381 Burton Road in Lexington and will cover 55,000 square feet. WiJo Pouches NA specializes in contract manufacturing for nicotine, caffeine, and functional pouches. The company provides services such as prototyping, scalable production, and market compliance support.
Operations are scheduled to begin in March 2026. Those interested in employment opportunities can find more information on the company’s website.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to this project.
WiJo Pouches North America CEO Jerry Sweetland stated: “As a long-standing member of the South Carolina business community for more than 25 years, I am honored to lead WiJo Pouches NA here in the Midlands. We sincerely appreciate the support and partnership of the South Carolina Department of Commerce and Lexington County Economic Development, whose guidance made selecting Lexington the clear and strategic choice. We look forward to the future, to WiJo’s continued growth, and to being a valued and collaborative contributor to the regional business community.”
Governor Henry McMaster commented: “Welcoming another international manufacturer to South Carolina further strengthens our thriving business community. WiJo Pouches NA’s new facility, along with the 170 new jobs it creates in Lexington County, will provide opportunities that greatly benefit our state and people for years to come.”
Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III added: “WiJo Pouches NA’s decision to select South Carolina as the home of its first North American manufacturing facility is another big win for our state. Our business-friendly environment and skilled workforce make Lexington County the ideal location for WiJo Pouches NA’s new operation, and we congratulate the company on this exciting announcement.”
Lexington County Council Chairman M. Todd Cullum said: “WiJo Pouches’ decision to launch its first U.S. operation right here in Lexington County is a tremendous win for our community and a powerful endorsement of our global competitiveness. This FDI investment brings 170 high-quality jobs, new economic activity, and a clear signal that international companies see Lexington County as a place where they can thrive. We are thrilled to welcome WiJo Pouches to our growing international business community and look forward to a long, successful partnership.”
Central SC Alliance President and CEO Jason Giuletti noted: “WiJo Pouches NA’s decision to establish its first North American manufacturing operation in Lexington County reflects the strength of the central South Carolina region. Our skilled workforce, strong infrastructure and exceptional quality of life make this area a top destination for globally minded companies. Through our cost-benefit analysis and detailed wage and labor report, we demonstrated that Central SC offers the key advantages businesses need to succeed, and WiJo Pouches chose the right place to grow.”
