A major international food company has chosen Anderson County for its first manufacturing facility in the United States. Netherlands-based Signature Foods USA announced plans to invest $11.5 million over the next five years, creating 202 full-time jobs in the Easley area.

The announcement marks a significant win for Anderson County's economic development efforts and brings a new industry to the region's growing business landscape.

Why Anderson County?

After an extensive selection process, Signature Foods selected Anderson County as the foundation for its U.S. expansion.

"After a long selection process, Anderson County in South Carolina was our number one choice for starting the first U.S. operation for our Dutch Group, Signature Foods NL. We believe that this location in Easley will be the foundation for the long-term growth of our business in the U.S.," said Peter Dornbos, CEO of Signature Foods USA.

The facility will be located at 211 Pine Road in Easley, making it the company's second U.S. location alongside its corporate office in New York City.

What is Signature Foods?

Signature Foods is a Netherlands-based food brand specializing in dips, spreads, and tapa bites. The company has built a strong reputation in Europe and is now bringing its operations to the American market.

"They're a stable company with a great reputation in Europe," said Burriss Nelson, executive director of Anderson County Economic Development. "In time, they will be a known commodity here in Anderson."

The Economic Impact

The investment includes a fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreement approved unanimously by the Anderson County Council in March. This incentive structure is available to industries investing at least $2.5 million in South Carolina and can result in approximately 40% savings on property taxes.

For this project, the company will receive a 30% tax credit for seven years, with an assessment ratio of 6% compared to the standard commercial rate of 10.5%. The agreement extends over 30 years with a projected fixed millage rate.

The company has committed to creating 202 full-time jobs within five years. If the investment or job creation targets are not met within three years, the tax credit would adjust from 30% to 15%.

Local Officials React

Anderson County leaders welcomed the announcement as evidence of the region's strong business climate.

"Signature Foods USA's decision to establish operations in Anderson County reflects the strength of our business climate and the quality of our workforce. We are honored by their investment, and we are especially encouraged by the addition of good-paying jobs that will directly benefit families in northern Anderson County," said District Six Anderson County Councilman Jimmy Davis.

The investment also represents a diversification of Anderson County's industrial base, adding food processing to the region's economic portfolio alongside its existing manufacturing and technology sectors.

What's Next

With the fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreement approved and the location secured, Signature Foods USA will move forward with establishing its manufacturing operations in Easley. The company expects to begin hiring as the facility develops over the coming months.

For job seekers in Anderson County, this represents a significant opportunity with a stable international company bringing new employment options to the area.

Stay tuned to Electric City Shoutouts for updates on hiring timelines and opportunities with Signature Foods USA.