Okonite expands Orangeburg County operations

COLUMBIA, S.C. - The Okonite Company (Okonite), a cable and wire manufacturer, today announced it is expanding its operations in Orangeburg County. The company's $400 million investment will create 105 new jobs.

Founded in 1878, Okonite is one of the oldest insulators of electrical wire and cable in the U.S., supporting a variety of industries including electric utility, oil and gas, railroad, and chemical. The company operates 34 locations nationwide, including two production facilities in Orangeburg County.

Okonite will build a new, approximately 552,000-square-foot manufacturing plant on its existing property, located at 2276 Rowesville Road in Orangeburg, to meet growing demand for the company's high-voltage electric cable products.

The beginning phases of construction will start in the fourth quarter of 2026, and the project will take approximately two to three years to complete. Individuals interested in joining the Okonite team should visit the company's careers page.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $1.5 million Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to Orangeburg County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.

QUOTES

"We thank the South Carolina Department of Commerce, the Orangeburg County Development Commission and the city of Orangeburg for their invaluable help and prompt actions in making our expansion possible." -Okonite CEO and Board Chairman David J. Sokira

"Okonite's expansion in Orangeburg County is a testament to the economic opportunities and skilled workforce available here in the Palmetto State. We are pleased to see the company continue to invest in South Carolina and create 105 new jobs in Orangeburg County." -Gov. Henry McMaster

"With an investment of $400 million, Okonite's expanded manufacturing operations will be an exciting economic advantage for Orangeburg County. We congratulate the company on its decision to deepen its roots in South Carolina and strengthen our state's industrial capacity." -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

"We are truly grateful for Okonite and the commitment they have shown to Orangeburg County over the years. An investment of more than $400 million and 105 new jobs means more opportunities for our citizens and more quality jobs right here at home. We thank them for continuing to invest in our people and for remaining an important part of the fabric of Orangeburg County." -Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright



FIVE FAST FACTS


• The Okonite Company (Okonite) is expanding its operations in Orangeburg County.
• The company's $400 million investment will create 105 new jobs.
• Okonite is a cable and wire manufacturer.
• The company is located at 2276 Rowesville Road in Orangeburg, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Okonite team should visit the company's careers page.