The three million square foot distribution center being constructed in Ridgeville right now is set to open ahead of schedule and create more jobs than originally thought.

In November, Greater Summerville/ Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce hosted a Power Hour sponsored by Dorchester County Economic Development. The guest speaker was the General Manager of the Walmart Distribution Center, Jeffrey Holzbauer.   

The massive distribution center, located on the Ridgeville Industrial Campus, will create 1,300 jobs for the region once the center is fully operational. The workforce in the region was a big draw for the superstore. Holzbauer told the audience that Walmart picked Ridgeville for the center because of the cost to build, proximity to port, and the workforce. 

The distribution center will supply 850 stores with products. Once the distribution center is operating, the port will see a 5% increase in volume.  That’s equivalent to and additional 350 containers through the port every day. 

"We want to praise the work of the Dorchester County Economic Development team in securing this size of investment in our county," Rita Berry, President and CEO of the Chamber said. "The ripple effects are profound for the entire great state of South Carolina, particularly the Lowcountry. "

The management team is already in place and undergoing training. Employees are being hired and trained now, according to Holzbauer. Employees receive two full weeks of training, an investment Holzbauer hopes will show employees' Walmart's commitment to investing in its staff.  The overall project means a $220 million investment in Dorchester County.

"We are absolutely thrilled about what this investment from Walmart means to, not only Dorchester County, but also surrounding communities," Rita Berry, President and CEO of the Chamber said. "We know that the career opportunities will change lives for generations."

Construction is underway right now but nearing complete.  The racks that hold products are being installed now. The distribution center is ahead of schedule, and the GM says it's likely going to open a month early, on January 4, 2022, for receiving. The center opens later for distribution.