Produce supplier to expand in Columbia with $26M investment

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A produce supplier is expanding its presence in Richland County.

McEntire Produce is continuing the development of its state-of-the-art facility in Richland County with a $26.2 million investment that will create 40 new jobs, according to a news release.

The company will upfit its existing facility located at 2040 American Italian Way in Columbia with automation advancements that will improve production capacity.

“The McEntire family is pleased to further invest in its Richland County manufacturing facility,” McEntire Produce President and CEO Carter McEntire said in the release. “The investments planned over the next five years will improve the capacity, enable customer expansion and create more jobs for South Carolinians.”

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Operating in Richland County since 1938, McEntire Produce is a family-owned fresh produce processor, repacker and wholesaler, according to the release. The company also handles the general processing of lettuce, tomatoes, onions and coleslaw mix for numerous fast-food restaurants.

Operations will be phased in over five years.

“McEntire Produce’s expansion will create more agribusiness jobs for South Carolinians and more opportunities for South Carolina farmers,” South Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers said in the release. I’m glad to see this respected, multi-generational local business solidifying its commitment to our state.”