Major candy company to build $675M plant in SC’s Midlands, bring 1,000 new jobs
An international candy company that is known for a host of famous brands is planning to establish a major manufacturing and corporate office in South Carolina.
Ferrara Candy Company, which makes candies such as Nerds, Jelly Belly, Laffy Taffy and a host of others, will build a 750,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Orangeburg, according to a Wednesday release from Gov. Henry McMaster’s office. The $675 million investment is expected to bring 1,000 new jobs.
Headquartered in Chicago with 30 facilities around the world, this will be the first Ferrara plant in South Carolina. The Orangeburg facility will be at Highway 21 and Rowesville Road and, according to a release, will include “processing and packaging, a warehouse for raw and pack materials, and an administrative office.” The first production lines are expected to be operational in early 2029.
“Our new Orangeburg facility represents a major step forward in transforming Ferrara’s manufacturing scale and capability, positioning the company for long-term global leadership,” Ferrara Candy CEO Marco Capurso said in the release. “We are excited about the opportunity to inspire sweetness in the Palmetto State.”
McMaster, who is in his final year as South Carolina’s governor, said the Ferrara announcement is a significant move for Orangeburg County, calling it a “transformative moment” for the county and South Carolina.
“Ferrara Candy Company’s $675 million investment in the Midlands is a powerful vote of confidence in our state that will bring many new opportunities for our people,” McMaster said. “We are proud Ferrara has chosen South Carolina as a place to build their future and look forward to the company’s continued success here.”
Those who may be interested in employment with Ferrara can visit readySC’s recruitment website, https://ferrara.readyscjobs.com.
