Manufacturing and Supply Chain Report for Sept. 9, 2020

Agribusiness center to bring 1,547 jobs to Hampton County

The $314 million Agriculture Technology Campus cluster, a joint venture for growing and distributing local produce, is projected to have an annual economic impact of nearly $552 million. It is expected to be operational in 2022. (Columbia Regional Business Report)

Rubber meets the road as Be Pro Be Proud program launches in S.C.

The workforce development program celebrated its launch in South Carolina with the unveiling of a custom-built, 53-foot 18-wheeler outfitted with state-of-the-art video and gaming technology showcasing skilled trades. The truck will tour S.C. middle and high schools to educate students about the career benefits of in-demand jobs in fields such as construction, welding and electrical work.The program is modeled after one pioneered in Arkansas in 2016. (Columbia Regional Business Report)

USC will work to increase aircraft production through grant

The university's College of Engineering and Computing will work with research teams from Benedict College, Boise State University and the University of Southern Mississippi to increase production rates to aid urban air mobility. (Columbia Regional Business Report)

N.C. grocery chain buying 20 stores in S.C. market

Alex Lee Inc. has entered an agreement to purchase 18 Bi-Lo branded stores in South Carolina and two in the Augusta metro area. The company owns Lowes Food stores, among other brands. The deal is expected to close in the next three months and affect 2,000 employees. (Charleston Regional Business Journal)

Spartanburg-based MCA acquires Virginia company

Mobile Communications America has acquired Virginia-based Commtronics, expanding the Spartanburg company's footprint to 65 locations across the country. Commtronics services North Carolina and Virginia. (GSA Business Report)

Lowcountry SCRA-backed company acquired by global investment firm

EnviroMix, which makes water and wastewater treatment systems, has been acquired by GEF Capital Partners. The global investor will gain controlling interest in EnviroMix’s wastewater technology. (Charleston Regional Business Journal)