Top manufacturing companies in south carolina

South Carolina has evolved into a global powerhouse for advanced manufacturing. Strategically located with access to the Port of Charleston and a robust infrastructure, the state has moved beyond its textile roots to become a leader in aerospace, automotive, and tire production.

Here is an overview of the top manufacturing companies driving South Carolina's economy in 2026.

1. The Big Three: Heavy Industry Leaders

These companies are the "anchor tenants" of South Carolina’s industrial landscape, employing thousands and supporting vast supplier networks.

• BMW Manufacturing Co. (Greer)

  As the largest BMW production facility in the world, the Spartanburg plant is a crown jewel of the state. It specializes in the "X" model SAVs (Sport Activity Vehicles) and has recently undergone massive expansions to integrate electric vehicle (EV) and battery assembly.

• The Boeing Company (North Charleston)

  Boeing South Carolina is the exclusive home of the 787 Dreamliner final assembly line. This massive facility handles everything from fabricating fuselage sections to final delivery, making South Carolina a global hub for aerospace innovation.

• Michelin North America (Greenville/Lexington/Anderson)

  With its North American headquarters in Greenville and multiple plants across the state, Michelin is a dominant force. South Carolina is the #1 tire exporter in the U.S., largely thanks to Michelin’s presence.

2. Emerging Giants & Specialized Leaders

Beyond the household names, several other companies maintain a massive footprint in specialized sectors.

3. Industry Clusters & Growth Sectors

The Automotive Revolution

South Carolina has become the "Detroit of the South." In addition to the OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) like BMW and Volvo, the state hosts hundreds of Tier 1 suppliers like ZF Transmissions and Continental Tire. The newest player on the block is Scout Motors, which is currently building a massive EV plant near Columbia.

Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals

This is the state's fastest-growing sector. Companies like Nephron Pharmaceuticals and Bausch + Lomb have significantly expanded their manufacturing and R&D footprints in the Midlands and Upstate regions.

Food & Beverage

Manufacturing in the Palmetto State isn't just about metal and carbon fiber. Kraft Heinz (Newberry) and Nestlé (Gaffney) operate some of the largest food processing plants in the country.

Why South Carolina?

• Port of Charleston: One of the most efficient deep-water ports in the U.S.

• Workforce Training: The readySC™ program is nationally recognized for providing custom-tailored training for new and expanding companies.

• Business Climate: Low corporate taxes and a "right-to-work" environment make it highly attractive for international investment.

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