By Al Dozier
Lexington County could see hundreds of new jobs as two large companies consider investments that would total approximately $250 million.
The investments came to light at the Dec. 10 council meeting after Lexington County Council revealed negotiation agreements are underway with the companies.
Canadian beverage manufacturer Cardiff Products and Michelin Tire Co. were identified as the potential investors.
Cardiff Products, which specializes in plant-based drinks, will likely bring nearly 100 jobs and invest nearly $100 million into Lexington County as it eyes opening a new facility in the county-owned Saxe Gotha Industrial Park.
The company would agree to invest a minimum of $99.6 million and create at least 94 jobs over a five-year period. The county would offer a handful of incentives to lure the company, including property tax breaks and an annual $500,000 tax credit for the next two decades. The plant would sit on a 38-acre parcel near the intersection of Interstates 26 and 77 that already houses other prominent companies like Nephron Pharmaceuticals and an Amazon fulfillment center.
County officials have voiced a positive outlook for final negotiations.
Michelin Tire Co. is considering making a $159 million investment in Lexington County.
The international tire manufacturer is in the early stages of negotiating a contract with the county on plans for a new facility, according to county officials.
Lexington County Council unanimously approved a resolution at the Oct. 10 council meeting to enter into contract negotiations with the company, which already has facilities throughout the state.
Details on how many jobs would be available have not been disclosed. County officials said Michelin is likely holding similar negotiations with other municipalities.
Lexington County Councilman Todd Cullum said he could not predict the outcome of the negotiations, but is hopeful the company will choose Lexington for the new development.
County officials said the investment would likely be used to upgrade Michelin’s existing plants. In Lexington the plants are located just outside of Red Bank nearing Interstate 20.
Michelin currently employs some 2,600 workers In Lexington County.
