Jan 2, 2013 9:07 AM

Millard Refrigerated Services plans to develop and operate a new cold storage distribution facility in Charleston County, South Carolina. The $42 million investment is expected to generate 87 new jobs.

“The facility will give us access to the world-class port in Charleston and provide an efficient hub for our customers along the East Coast and throughout the Southeast,” said Lance Larsen, president and chief executive officer of Millard Refrigerated Services. “We look forward to getting our new facility up and running, and appreciate the support we’ve received from state and local officials.”

Millard Refrigerated Services will construct a state-of-the-art cold storage facility in the Palmetto Commerce Park, at 7748 Palmetto Commerce Parkway in North Charleston SC. The company will use the facility to freeze and store poultry, pork, and beef products for export to foreign markets.

“We celebrate Millard Refrigerated Services decision to put down roots in South Carolina with a $42 million investment that will create 87 new jobs,” said South Carolina Gov Nikki Haley. “We are working hard every day to attract investments like this one from companies across the nation and around the globe.”

The company expects to begin work on the building in spring 2013 and start operations by 2014.

In 2011, South Carolina’s exports jumped more than 21% to $24.6 billion in goods sold to 198 nations.

“The port community welcomes Millard to the area, as their presence will mean increased activity through the Port of Charleston’s container facilities,” said Jim Newsome, president and CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority. “Exports of refrigerated cargo have continued to rise, and these heavy exports must find their way to ports with deep-water capabilities, like Charleston.”

Millard Refrigerated Services will begin hiring for the new positions in mid-2013. Anyone interested in job opportunities should visit the careers section of www.millardref.com.