PRESS RELEASE
South Carolina Office of the Governor
David M. Beasley - Governor
For Immediate Release:  June 25, 1998
Contact:  Gary Karr (803) 734-9840
 
 
 GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES RECORD BREAKING MONTH FOR INVESTMENTS

(Columbia)-- Governor David M. Beasley today announced that South Carolina's economy set records in May with the most new jobs and the highest capital investment ever announced in a one-month period.

Companies last month announced they had invested more than $690 million, creating a record-shattering 3,895 new jobs. The record May comes as South Carolina continues to experience record low unemployment and unprecedented job creation.

"South Carolina continues to lead the way in economic development. We have an economic powerhouse here now. Quality companies like BMW, Excel Communications, Solectron and Jacobs Applied Technology are just a few of the top-quality companies that recently announced new jobs and investment," Governor Beasley said. "Our strategic plan for economic development, our strong pro-business climate and our vigorous teamwork are key components of this state's success."

Today's announcement took place at Solectron, an information technology company that was one of 21 making economic investment announcements in May.

"The high-wage jobs being created now are boosting the quality of life throughout South Carolina," the Governor said. "South Carolina's future is being made brighter every day."

The record May reflects progress in the strategic plan, which focuses on targeting industry clusters, such as plastics or automotive. The announcements in May involve investments in the clusters of forestry products, textile and fiber products, automotive, information technology and plastics.

"In the past month, strong economic activity has been realized in both rural and urban areas throughout the state," Commerce Secretary Robert V. Royall said. "This phenomenal growth mirrors great teamwork involving state and local governments, existing  business leaders, and citizens.

Slightly more than half of the jobs announced in May came from new companies, with the rest being created from expansions.
 
 
 

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