Chief Buildings, a subsidiary of Chief Industries, Inc. and a premier metal building system manufacturer, announced plans to establish operations in Lancaster County. The company’s $22.1 million investment will create 102 new jobs over the next five years. Economic developers estimate the jobs will have an average wage of $23 per hour, which is above the county’s average.
“Chief Buildings will be an exceptional addition to Lancaster County’s manufacturing community,” Lancaster County Department of Economic Development Executive Director James Gilbert said. “Since our initial meeting with Chief Industries’ CEO DJ Eihusen and his team in September, we realized just how special of a company we were recruiting and committed to securing the project. This third-generation, family-owned business is not only a leader in their industry, but in the communities in which they operate. Lancaster County couldn’t be more appreciative of their decision to bring these outstanding manufacturing jobs here, and we look forward to being a partner with them as they grow their operation here over the coming years.”
Founded in 1966, Chief Buildings is a nationwide leader in low-rise, non-residential metal building systems. The company’s custom-engineered steel solutions optimize and integrate steel framing, roofing, and walls.
Located at 992 Quality Drive in Lancaster, Chief Buildings’ new state-of-the-art Lancaster County operations will expand the company’s footprint in the Southeast and increase service to its authorized builder network.
“Lancaster was the ideal location to expand our operations. The expansion is a logical step in our business growth strategy and helps to ensure we meet the needs of our stakeholders,” Chief Industries Chairman of the Board, CEO and President DJ Eihusen said. “This project in Lancaster would not be possible without the support from the Lancaster County Department of Economic Development and South Carolina Department of Commerce.”
Back in November, the Lancaster County Council unanimously approved economic incentive inducements to lure what was then-dubbed “Project Arrowhead” to the area. The incentives deal includes a 30-year tax break, a fee-in-lieu-of-taxes agreement lasting 25 years, and special source revenue credits. In exchange for the economic incentives, the company must create at least 75 jobs.
Operations are expected to be online in October 2022. Individuals interested in learning more about Chief Buildings should visit the company’s website.
