The FAYAT Group held a groundbreaking ceremony to turn first dirt on the company's new 100,000-sq.-ft. parts distribution center in Fairfield County, S.C.
Joining Jean-Claude Fayat, FAYAT group president and Rob Mueckler, FAYAT road equipment division general manager, North America, were a host of dignitaries, including Henry McMaster, South Carolina governor, Clarence Gilbert, chair of Fairfield County council, Ann Broadwater, Fairfield County economic development director, Everett Stubbs, South Carolina State senator and Annie E McDaniel, state representative.
The $13.7 million investment will expand FAYAT's operations in Fairfield County for its Road Equipment Division — which includes BOMAG Americas, Dynapac North America, Charlatte North America, Asphalt Drum Mixers, FAYAT Cleantech and the newly acquired Mecalac Group — to improve its after-sales support for customers throughout North America. Built adjacent to the company's BOMAG Americas North American headquarters, the project also will enable FAYAT to increase localized production for its road machinery and enhance its training capabilities.
"I am proud to announce another strategic investment that will benefit the entire Road Division in multiple ways," said Fayat to a crowd of state and local officials and FAYAT team members. "Groundbreaking for this new FAYAT distribution center in Fairfield County is not just a new facility. It is a symbol of our strategic investment in North America, Fairfield County, our dealers and our customers. This expansion is more than a business decision. It's a testament to our confidence in the future of North America and our deep appreciation for the hardworking communities here."
Mueckler said, "Ten years ago, the FAYAT Group made a strategic decision to invest in Fairfield County. Ever since, we've experienced tremendous success, thanks in no small part to the outstanding local workforce. The skill, commitment and work ethic of the people have made a lasting impact on our business. Today, this workforce has become one of our greatest competitive advantages."
Also speaking during the ceremony, Governor McMaster said, "FAYAT Group's $13.7 million expansion once again proves that South Carolina provides existing businesses with the resources needed to find continued success. We've built a culture that supports businesses every step of the way, because we know thriving companies like FAYAT build vibrant communities."
"We are thrilled to see FAYAT Group deepen its investment in Fairfield County," said Chairman Gilbert. "FAYAT Group's decision to expand its operation here in Ridgeway represents not only a major investment in infrastructure, but also a reaffirmation of faith in this community — its people, its potential and its future."
The FAYAT Road Equipment Division provides specialized machines for each step of the road's life cycle — soil preparation, asphalt production and paving, compaction, road maintenance and recycling and road cleaning. The new FAYAT parts distribution center is scheduled to be operational in Q4 2025. It is expected to bring 75 new jobs to the Columbia, S.C., area, adding to the more than 120 employees at FAYAT's existing facility.
For more information, visit roadequipment.fayat.com.
