Congratulations to the 2019 Chamber Large Business of the Year, KION North America. KION North America Corporation is a member of the KION Group, one of the world's two leading manufacturers of industrial trucks and the largest manufacturer of electric forklifts. Their brand companies, Linde and Baoli, serve the specific industrial truck requirements of the U.S., Canadian and Mexican markets with a comprehensive and complementary product portfolio.  

Headquartered in Summerville, S.C., KION North America produces material handling equipment and solutions known for their innovative technologies, reduced energy consumption and low operating costs. KION North America also works closely with their sister company, Dematic, the global leader in automated material handling that provides a comprehensive range of intelligent supply chain and automation solutions. 

The success of the KION Group can be attributed to the commitment and talents of their team. The KION North America team makes breakthrough innovations that push their products forward, improve their business and delight their customers. 

KION North America has been a fixture of the Summerville community since 1985 when it was known as Baker Motor Company. KION North America is extremely active in the local community and provides almost 250 jobs in Summerville.  

KION North America works closely with College of Charleston's German studies program and sponsored the 2019 German Language Fall Retreat. They have held several collection drives for Dorchester Children's Advocacy Center including a Christmas 2019 and Back to School drive 2019. Since 2018, they have participated in the Charleston Regional Youth Apprenticeship Program and currently have three apprentices (a total of 5 since 2018).  

Since 2016, KION North America has participated in the United Way Day of Caring assisting groups such as Oakbrook Elementary/Middle campus and Pattison's Academy. 

Their employees regularly volunteer with the Lowcountry Food Bank and have also loaned the SC Red Cross several pallet trucks to use for hurricane preparations.  

To date, KION North America's Lifting Up the Lowcountry initiative has donated a total of $9,500 to local charities, and over 100 KION North America employees have participated in volunteer events. 

Since its establishment in 1911, the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce has been an integral part of the growth of Summerville and the surrounding areas. Our mission is to protect and promote the quality of life in the community, with specific emphasis on improving economic vitality and providing a favorable business climate. For more information, please visit www.greatersummerville.org or call (843) 873-2931.  

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