Columbia, S.C. – Ecomelida, Inc., a U.S. subsidiary of Zhangzhou Sanlida Environmental Technology Corporation, today announced plans to locate its first North American operations in Orangeburg County. The $52 million investment is projected to create 200 new jobs.

Zhangzhou Sanlida Environmental Technology Corporation is an importer and recycler of waste paper and plastic. Utilizing creative processes to separate pulp, plastic and aluminum from soft drink cartons and other products, the company’s recycled plastics are used in foam, cast plastic parts and more.

Located at 2084 Rowesville Road in Orangeburg, S.C., Ecomelida’s new Orangeburg County facility is expected to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2018. Hiring for the new positions should commence in the third quarter of 2018, and those interested in joining the Ecomelida team should email contact@ecomelida.com.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to the project. A $750,000 Rural Infrastructure Fund grant was also awarded to Orangeburg County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.

Quotes

“Today marks another chapter for our company as we invest in this new Orangeburg County plant. We are thankful for the assistance we have received from the state and county governments and look forward to years of continued success.” –Ecomelida, Inc. Madam Chairman Xi Cheng

“We’re excited to welcome Ecomelida to the South Carolina business community. Any time another company chooses to call South Carolina home, it’s a testament to our great workforce and business-friendly environment. The 200 jobs they’re bringing to Orangeburg County will be a tremendous, positive impact to that community.” –Gov. Henry McMaster

Foreign direct investment continues to play an important role in supporting South Carolina’s diverse economy. Ecomelida’s new investment in Orangeburg County is a milestone for this community, and we’re excited to see what the future has in store for this innovative company.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“We are grateful to add another Chinese manufacturing facility to our family of international companies. Orangeburg County has one of the highest concentrations of international companies in the state, and we welcome Ecomelida with open arms. Diversity makes us stronger in culture as well as in products made. The green initiatives of this company and the recycling of waste are major wins for our environment and landfills across the county. We look forward to many years of success.” –Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright Sr.

“We’d like to congratulate Ecomelida, Inc. on announcing its first North American facility. We are excited that the company has selected Orangeburg County for this investment. This new facility will bring many new job opportunities and create additional capacity to reduce landfill waste, while providing environmentally responsible raw materials to manufacturers. We congratulate the company and our partners in Orangeburg County on this announcement.” –Central S.C. Alliance Chairman Mike Brenan 

“South Carolina Ports Authority congratulates Ecomelida on their new operations in South Carolina. With the Port’s big-ship handling abilities and weekly Asia services, we look forward to serving their export needs.” –S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome