Metso Outotec relocating facility within Richland County

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Global mining manufacturer Metso Outotec is investing $3 million to relocate its Richland County pump manufacturing operations. 

The Helsinki-headquartered company, which also provides end-to-end solutions for the aggregates, minerals processing and metals refining industries, will retain 82 jobs from its existing operations while creating 13 more. Metso Outotec, which has operated a facility off Two Notch Road since 2006, is moving to 1041 Ponderosa Point Drive, located at Interstate 20 and S.C. Highway 215. 

"Throughout our year-long search, we evaluated many options in surrounding counties," Jack Spitler, Metso Outotec pump operations manager, said in a news release from Richland County. "However, the dedication and continued support from the Richland County Economic Development team ultimately tipped the scales on this specific location. This new location will provide much-enhanced transportation access, which is key given increasing volumes through the Port of Charleston and our evolving customer base."

The company will lease and retrofit an existing 42,000-square-foot shell building. The new facility, slated to open in December, will include a state-of-the-art overhead crane system and logistics capability, a newly paved entrance road and an open office environment. 

"Council is pleased that Metso Outotec plans to stay in Richland County as they shift their focus in the Southeast from distribution to manufacturing and logistics support," Richland County Council Chair Paul Livingston said. "The company's decision to change locations but stay within Richland County is a testament to our workforce and community."

Metso Outotec employs more than 15,000 people in 50 countries and recorded sales of $4.6 million in 2020, according to the release.