Scout Motors invests $300M in South Carolina supplier park

Scout Motors is putting another huge stake in the ground in the Midlands.

The automaker is making an additional investment of $300 million in South Carolina to build a Supplier Park on the site of its Production Center in Blythewood, according to a news release. This initiative, which does not come with any new government incentives, is expected to support approximately 1,000 additional supplier jobs and represents a critical expansion of the company’s existing investment of more than $2 billion in the state, the release stated..

“This expansion reinforces our long-term commitment to American manufacturing and reflects our continued belief in South Carolina as a hub for automotive innovation and economic growth,” said Scott Keogh, president and CEO of Scout Motors, in the release. “Our on-site Supplier Park will strengthen our production capabilities and help establish a vibrant, resilient supply chain ecosystem that will benefit the region for decades to come.”

Located adjacent to the main Production Center buildings, the Supplier Park spans nearly 200 acres and will feature more than 2.3 million square feet of specialized manufacturing and logistics space across three key centers:

• Just in Time (JIT) Facility dedicated to sequencing parts for final vehicle assembly.
• Battery Assembly Building designed for high-volume battery assembly.
• Accessories Building to support upfitting and installation of vehicle accessories.

In addition to building the physical footprint, Scout Motors is in the process of finalizing supplier contracts that are expected to drive a multiplier effect across the local economy, according to the release. Early estimates suggest that supplier agreements already awarded represent $368 million in investments and are expected to support more than 1,000 new jobs in South Carolina.

“When Scout Motors announced they were coming to South Carolina, we knew it would set off a chain reaction of investment and job creation across our state,” said Gov. Henry McMaster in the release. “This announcement further highlights Scout Motors’ commitment to our continued prosperity and the seemingly limitless economic opportunities they’re creating for our people.”

The Supplier Park will serve as a central logistics and production hub, supporting seamless delivery of parts, batteries, and accessories to Scout Motors’ main assembly operations, the release stated. The size and scope of the park reflect Scout Motors’ strategy to build a fully integrated, domestic supply chain for its trucks and SUVs.

“This supplier park is a major milestone in the Scout Motors project and for Richland County, signifying a new era of growth in innovative manufacturing and opportunity,” said Jesica Mackey, co-chair, Columbia Area Development Partnership and chair, Richland County Council, in the release. “Not only does it infuse an immediate investment of capital that further strengthens our community, it sets the stage for other businesses to enter the market that will bring in career opportunities and partnerships.”

The construction contract has been awarded to Evans General Contractors, a nationally respected firm with strong local ties, the release stated. PRP Real Assets is serving as the Project Advisor.

“It has been an incredible opportunity to work with the Scout Motors team on the new plant,” said Paul C. Dougherty, President of PRP Real Assets. “PRP is honored to be a small part of what will be the most thrilling new trucks and SUVs ever produced. We look forward to seeing the new vehicles roll off the assembly line in Blythewood, SC.”