South Carolina – Ferrara Candy Company is bringing a major new manufacturing operation to Orangeburg County, marking the company’s first location in South Carolina and one of the region’s largest economic development announcements in recent years.
The Chicago-headquartered candy maker plans to invest $675 million in the project, with the expansion expected to create 1,000 manufacturing and corporate jobs over the next 10 years.
The new facility will be built near Highway 21 and Rowesville Road in Orangeburg, where Ferrara plans to develop a 750,000-square-foot operation that will include processing and packaging lines, warehouse space for raw and packaging materials, and administrative offices.
Ferrara has been based in Chicago for 118 years and today operates more than 30 facilities around the world. The company employs more than 9,400 people and sells products in more than 60 countries.
Its portfolio includes more than 40 well-known brands, including NERDS®, SweeTARTS®, Laffy Taffy®, Trolli®, Brach’s® and Jelly Belly® in the United States, along with Terry’s and Carambar in Europe and Dori in Brazil. Ferrara is privately held and affiliated with Ferrero.
Company officials said the Orangeburg County site will help Ferrara meet strong consumer demand while strengthening its manufacturing capacity for the years ahead. The first production lines at the new facility are expected to begin operating in the first quarter of 2029.
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“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,” said Ferrara Chief Executive Officer Marco Capurso.
“We are excited about the opportunity to inspire sweetness in the Palmetto State, and we are grateful to the leadership of Governor McMaster, Secretary Lightsey and their teams, and the Orangeburg County officials, in their partnership and effort to bring us to South Carolina”
The project also received state support.
After the Joint Bond Review Committee recommended approval, the State Fiscal Accountability Authority authorized up to $85 million in General Obligation State Economic Development Bonds to help offset costs tied to site acquisition, improvements and related infrastructure. The Coordinating Council for Economic Development also approved job development credits connected to the project.
“Today marks a transformative moment for Orangeburg County and all of 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. 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,” said Gov. Henry McMaster.
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People interested in future Ferrara jobs in South Carolina can visit readySC’s recruitment website. Companies interested in supplier or vendor opportunities can complete the company’s online interest form.
