News Summary
Woodward Inc., an aeronautics manufacturing company based in Colorado, plans to invest nearly $200 million in a new manufacturing facility in Spartanburg County, South Carolina. The project, which has received a 40-year FILOT agreement from the county, is expected to create 275 jobs and will focus on producing hydraulic actuation systems for aircraft. Production is anticipated to begin in 2027, marking a significant investment in the local economy and enhancing Woodward’s capabilities in the aerospace industry.
Spartanburg County, South Carolina — Colorado-based aeronautics manufacturing company Woodward Inc. has announced plans to invest nearly $200 million in a new manufacturing facility in Spartanburg County, which is expected to create approximately 275 new jobs for the local community. The Spartanburg County Council recently approved a 40-year fee-in-lieu-of-tax (FILOT) agreement, facilitating this significant investment.
The FILOT agreement requires Woodward to create at least 125 full-time jobs and invest a minimum of $157.4 million in the region. While company figures indicate that the planned investment amounts to around $196 million, the governor’s office reports that it will lead to the creation of 275 jobs. The new manufacturing facility will encompass a sizable 300,000-square-foot production site located within the Smith Farms Industrial Park in Greer.
Woodward’s new facility is set to focus on producing servo-hydraulic actuation systems specifically designed for aircraft flight control systems used in the Airbus A350. Production at the site is anticipated to begin in 2027, marking a significant expansion for the company. To support this endeavor financially, Spartanburg County will lower the tax assessment rate for Woodward’s property from the standard 10.5 percent to just 4 percent. Additionally, the county is offering Woodward a special source revenue credit valued at $3.25 million over a four-year period.
Woodward’s CEO stated the new facility would enhance the company’s capabilities in hydraulic flight control design, indicating a strategic move to strengthen their presence in the aerospace industry. Governor Henry McMaster commented that this substantial investment further reinforces South Carolina’s reputation as a hub for manufacturing and technological innovation.
Woodward, a company with a rich history dating back to 1870 when it first began manufacturing water wheels, has evolved significantly over the years. It was recently ranked No. 572 on Time Magazine’s list of the 1,000 best companies of 2025, showcasing its position within the industry. The South Carolina Coordinating Council for Economic Development has granted Spartanburg County $1.75 million to aid in site preparation and construction for the new facility, further emphasizing the state’s commitment to economic growth.
Local residents have expressed a mix of emotions regarding the new manufacturing facility. While many are excited about the potential job opportunities that will arise from Woodward’s investment, there are concerns related to possible noise and pollution associated with the industrial facility’s operations. The area surrounding the industrial park is also undergoing development into new housing, suggestive of additional economic growth in the region.
The establishment of this plant represents a substantial milestone for Woodward Inc., as it aims to expand its partnerships within the aerospace sector while providing valuable employment opportunities within Spartanburg County. The addition of 275 jobs is a significant development for the local economy and a testament to the ongoing evolution of Spartanburg County as a thriving business hub.
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Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Woodward New Plant in Spartanburg
- Wikipedia: Spartanburg County
- Goupstate: Woodward Inc. Investment
- Google Search: Spartanburg County economic growth
- Fox Carolina: Aerospace Company Jobs Creation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Manufacturing
- WBTV: Major Manufacturer Investment
- Google News: Woodward Inc. manufacturing
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
