Case Studies
A collaborative effort delivers 700 new jobs and secures a long-term global partner.
Project Snapshot
Company: Eaton Corporation
Investment: $340 million
Jobs: 700
Industry: Advanced Manufacturing / Automotive Supply Chain
Location: Union County, South Carolina
The Challenge
Eaton, a global leader in power management technologies, was searching for a new manufacturing location in the Southeast. The company needed a large, modern facility, strong utility support, and a workforce capable of meeting the demand for 700 new jobs. Multiple states were competing for the investment, making Union County’s response critical.
The Solution
Union County presented a compelling option: an available building once used by Belk Distribution. The county team, together with state and regional partners, positioned the facility as a turnkey solution. Workforce readiness was demonstrated through Spartanburg Community College, ReadySC, and local schools, assuring Eaton that the region could deliver the talent required. Utility providers brought competitive incentives to the table, while county leaders established trust with Eaton’s leadership team.
A key hurdle involved securing 60 acres of adjoining farmland for long-term expansion potential. Union County worked closely with the property owner, whose land had been in the family for more than 200 years, to reach an agreement. This effort showed Eaton the county’s ability to solve complex challenges while keeping the project on schedule.
The Result
In 2024, Eaton announced a $340 million investment in Union County that will create 700 jobs. The project is the largest single economic development announcement in the county’s history. Beyond the immediate impact, the investment secures a foundation for future growth and strengthens Union County’s role in the global automotive and advanced manufacturing supply chain.
The Impact
Eaton’s decision highlights Union County’s readiness to compete and its ability to deliver on the largest and most complex projects. For the community, the investment brings hundreds of stable jobs, a stronger tax base, and confidence in the county’s economic future. For other companies, it demonstrates that Union County can provide both the workforce and the collaborative environment needed to succeed.
“Union County rolled out the red carpet from day one. They brought together state, local, and utility partners to make this project a reality, and they made us feel at home before we ever broke ground.” - Eaton Corporation Leadership
“This project showed what happens when everyone pulls together. From workforce partners to utility providers, Union County delivered a complete solution. Eaton could have gone anywhere, but they chose us because we were ready.”
Dalton Williams, Executive Director, Union County Development Corporation
Closing Statement
Union County’s success with Eaton reflects the county’s strengths: preparation, collaboration, and commitment to long-term partnerships. It is a clear example of how the community works to help global companies achieve lasting success.
A Tier 1 supplier strengthens its commitment to Union County, retaining 700 jobs and modernizing operations for the future.
Project Snapshot
Company: Gestamp
Investment: $220 million
Jobs: 700 retained
Industry: Automotive Manufacturing / Tier 1 Supplier
Location: Union County, South Carolina
The Challenge
Gestamp, a Spanish-owned Tier 1 supplier to BMW and Volvo, had operated in Union County since 2010. The company was evaluating options for a major investment in new machinery and equipment, with competing facilities in Chattanooga and other locations under consideration. At one point, closing the Union County facility was a real possibility. To secure the expansion, Union County needed to demonstrate that it could deliver a cost-effective, competitive solution while ensuring continuity for the existing workforce.
The Solution
Union County’s development team, working closely with the South Carolina Department of Commerce, crafted a package of support that addressed the company’s needs. Local and state incentives helped offset the cost of the expansion, and specialized training dollars were secured to upskill existing employees. This was critical, as the investment was focused on automation and facility modernization rather than new job creation.
Union County’s ability to negotiate and collaborate across multiple levels of government and industry partners helped build confidence in the location. By removing cost barriers and aligning with Gestamp’s strategic priorities, the county made a strong case for keeping and growing the operation in Union.
The Result
Gestamp announced a $220 million expansion at its Union County facility, retaining 700 jobs and positioning the plant for long-term competitiveness. The decision avoided the potential loss of a key employer and reinforced Union County’s role in the automotive supply chain serving BMW, Volvo, and potentially Scout Motors.
The Impact
Gestamp’s expansion demonstrates Union County’s ability to compete head-to-head with other states and win. It highlights the county’s focus on retention and expansion, ensuring that long-standing employers continue to invest and grow locally. For the community, the project protects hundreds of jobs and strengthens the tax base. For future investors, it proves that Union County is committed to helping companies succeed at every stage of growth.
“Keeping Gestamp in Union County was about more than incentives. It was about showing them that this community values their presence and will work with them to stay competitive. We fought for those 700 jobs, and we are proud that they chose to reinvest here.”
Dalton Williams, Executive Director, Union County Development Corporation
Closing Statement
Gestamp’s expansion is a clear example of how Union County works tirelessly to retain its global employers. The county’s collaborative approach ensures that companies not only come to Union but also stay and grow for decades.
An international food additives manufacturer chooses Jonesville for its $50 million investment and long-term growth.
Project Snapshot
Company: Fine Organics
Investment: $50 million
Jobs: 60
Industry: Specialty Chemicals / Food Manufacturing
Location: Jonesville, Union County, South Carolina
The Challenge
Fine Organics, a global manufacturer of specialty additives for the food and beverage industry, was searching for a location to build its first U.S. manufacturing facility. The company’s leadership required a site that could support chemical production, meet strict environmental and wastewater requirements, and provide access to workforce and logistics advantages. Their search was nationwide, and Union County faced tough competition.
The Solution
Union County positioned Trakas Industrial Park in Jonesville as the perfect location. The county had invested years earlier in extending industrial-grade sewer service to the site, connecting Union County to Spartanburg County’s system along Highway 176. This improvement, long recognized as essential, finally unlocked the property’s full potential.
From the beginning, the Union County Development Corporation emphasized partnership. Engineering and permitting experts were brought in early to navigate the complex requirements of a chemical manufacturer. The City of Union, utility providers, and the South Carolina Department of Commerce coordinated on infrastructure, incentives, and workforce planning. Cultural understanding also played a role. The county team made a point to honor Fine Organics’ heritage and traditions throughout multiple site visits, building trust and rapport with the family-owned business.
The Result
In 2025, Fine Organics announced a $50 million investment in Union County, creating 60 new jobs and establishing its first American manufacturing presence. The company purchased the entire Trakas Industrial Park, signaling confidence in Union County as a long-term partner.
The Impact
Fine Organics’ decision validates Union County’s patient investment in infrastructure and its ability to attract global companies in competitive industries. For the community, the project brings a new sector of advanced chemical manufacturing, new jobs, and the tallest manufacturing facility in county history at more than 100 feet. For other companies, it demonstrates Union County’s readiness, flexibility, and capacity to host international projects that require precision, reliability, and collaboration.
“Landing Fine Organics was the result of years of preparation and persistence. We invested in infrastructure that opened the door, and then we built a relationship that showed them Union County was the right place to call home.”
Dalton Williams, Executive Director, Union County Development Corporation
Closing Statement
Fine Organics’ investment underscores Union County’s role as a globally connected community. It reflects the county’s commitment to preparation, cultural understanding, and strong partnerships. By welcoming Fine Organics, Union County proves once again that it is a destination where international companies can succeed and grow.