#United States #Manufacturing #Orangeburg #Ferrara #Orangeburg County

Ferrara Candy Company Expands to South Carolina

The Ferrara Candy Company, a leading name in the sugar confectionery industry, has made headlines with its announcement to establish a new manufacturing site in Orangeburg County, South Carolina. This bold move marks Ferrara's first operational footprint in the Palmetto State and underscores the company's commitment to growing its production capabilities within the United States.

Headquartered in Chicago, Ferrara has been a prominent player in the candy market for over 115 years. With a strong presence in the U.S., Brazil, and Europe, the company manufactures a variety of beloved confectionery products under more than 40 iconic brands, including NERDS®, SweeTARTS®, and Jelly Belly®. The decision to invest $675 million in South Carolina is a strategic step aimed at enhancing its manufacturing scale and capabilities while responding to a surge in consumer demand.

Investment Details

Ferrara's new facility will span an impressive 750,000 square feet and will be located at the intersection of Highway 21 and Rowesville Road in Orangeburg. The extensive manufacturing complex will not only include processing and packaging lines but will also feature a warehouse for raw materials and finished products, as well as administrative offices. This investment is projected to create approximately 1,000 jobs within the next decade, significantly impacting the local economy and workforce.

Marco Capurso, CEO of Ferrara, expressed excitement about the new Orangeburg facility. He articulated that this initiative represents a transformative moment for the company, as it aims to inspire sweetness in the local community. Capurso thanked state officials, including Governor Henry McMaster and Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III, for their collaboration in making this project a reality.

A Boost for Local Economy

Governor McMaster praised the investment as a sign of confidence in South Carolina's business climate. He highlighted the potential for new job opportunities and economic prosperity it would bring to the Midlands region. Johnnie Wright, Chairman of the Orangeburg County Council, also welcomed Ferrara to the growing list of international companies choosing to establish operations in the area.

The economic implications of Ferrara's investment extend beyond job creation. It is expected to drive growth and development in various sectors, from manufacturing to logistics, as new suppliers and vendors seek to collaborate with the candy giant. As Ferrara expands its footprint, the infrastructure supporting the company's operations is also set to improve, further enhancing Orangeburg County's appeal to other businesses.

Future Projections

Ferrara has plans to have the first production lines of the new facility operational by the first quarter of 2029. Those interested in joining Ferrara's team can find recruitment information on their website, while companies looking to partner with Ferrara as suppliers or vendors are encouraged to complete the interest form available online.

To support the new development, state economic development bonds worth up to $85 million were authorized to assist with site acquisition and related improvements. This funding is poised to amplify the positive economic impact of the new facility across Orangeburg County.

A Legacy of Sweetness

Ferrara Candy Company's impressive legacy is built on its dedication to creating delightful candy experiences for consumers of all ages. With its diverse lineup of products, the company has established itself as a household name in America, contributing to festive celebrations and everyday moments of joy.

Ferrara’s expansion to South Carolina is not just a significant milestone for the company, but also a key development for the local community, signifying a shared pathway toward sustainable growth and innovation in the sugar confectionery industry. As the company prepares to unfold the next chapter of its story in Orangeburg, the excitement builds around the sweetness that awaits both its employees and consumers alike.

For more information on Ferrara’s offerings and history, visit www.ferrara.com.