Site Selection Case Study: American LaFrance

From the striking American eagle-and-cross logo emblazoned across the 300,000-plus-sq.-ft. building to the contemporary glass entrance with signature vehicles on display outside, it's obvious that American LaFrance has arrived in the South Carolina Lowcountry – and it's here to stay.
        In 1995, Freightliner, Inc., a division of DaimlerChrysler AG, acquired American LaFrance, a manufacturer of custom-made fire trucks and ambulances. In 2000, when the company began considering consolidation of American LaFrance's eight locations throughout the country, North Charleston was a top contender.
        The Lowcountry's Palmetto Commerce Park ranked high because of the size of the existing manufacturing space Freightliner already owned there, the potential for expansion and the incentives offered by the city, county and state.
        "Everything provided here outweighed staying in our existing headquarters," said Don Stewart, American LaFrance CEO.
        Stewart said he expects the current work force of 150 to increase to 800 within the first two years of operation. Ground has already been broken for a 125,000-sq.-ft. addition to the manufacturing plant. Estimated annual output at the plant next year is close to 2,000 vehicles.
        With this kind of growth in the works, reliable electric service is crucial to the plant's operations. From air conditioning and computer systems to painting, assembly and production, any power outage can have a serious impact on the company. That's why SCANA subsidiary South Carolina Electric & Gas Co. (SCE&G), plans to build a new substation to supply American LaFrance as well as future businesses in the park. This will ensure reliable electricity now and as they grow. "SCE&G has been very proactive," said Stewart.
        Steve Dykes, economic development director for Charleston County, was at the center of the team from Charleston that recruited American LaFrance to the site. "The development of Palmetto Commerce Park was an important precursor to attracting big business to the area," he said. "Through SCANA, SCE&G's parent company, we received two economic development grants in order to extend water and sewer lines and the road to the property at the back of the park. SCANA helped make the park possible with substantial support for non-traditional items, and that's what drives success."
        Dykes worked closely with Steve Wright, SCANA governmental affairs and economic development representative, to secure the funding.
        "We're proud to be a part of the team that brought Charleston County's first industrial park to fruition," said Wright. "Now we want to be partners with American LaFrance and grow with them."
        The location of American LaFrance heralds a new era of growth and opportunity in North Charleston and Charleston County. SCE&G welcomes the opportunity to serve them and to help make possible the continued growth of Palmetto Commerce Park, Wright said.