German Automotive Supplier to Invest $69M in SC Plant

By Laura Calugar 

IFA’s facility in Ladson, S.C.

IFA, a direct supplier of propshafts for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, is constructing a new manufacturing and distribution facility in Summerville, S.C. The 234,000-square-foot development represents a $69 million investment and is projected to create approximately 120 new job. 

Located at 479 Trade Center Parkway, the new facility will provide easy access to Interstate 26. The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved a $150,000 job development credit related to this Berkeley County project.

Expanding SC operations  

As one of the largest manufacturers of propeller shafts in the world, IFA assembles approximately two million driveshafts every year in the company’s Ladson, S.C., facility. IFA was established in 2002 and currently employs more than 600 people in the U.S., serving many of the largest global automobile manufacturers including BMW and Mercedes.

“IFA has a vision to be a Top 100 Auto supplier, and this latest investment is part of that plan. For 15 years, IFA has been growing with the region, and we are in a position of strength within our market. This expansion shows the shareholders confidence in the region and its employees, and strengthens our commitment to be in South Carolina for years to come,” said IFA President & CEO Mauro Amarante, in a prepared statement.

Hiring for the new positions is projected to begin in the second quarter of 2018. The Palmetto State’s automotive industry employs more than 65,000 people.

Image via Google Street View