Columbia Standard

A saltwater fishing boat manufacturer recently announced its intention to expand within Newberry County with a $3.7 million investment that is expected to create approximately 50 jobs there. 

Whitmire-based Sea Pro Boats, LLC has been in business for over 30 years, manufacturing center console fishing boats, according to a press release from Gov. Henry McMaster's office. 

“We congratulate Sea Pro Boats, LLC on their latest investment in Newberry County," McMaster said in the office release. "Anytime a company is able to grow and expand its operations in our state, it serves as a victory for the local community, our workforce and the state of South Carolina.” 

The company said it anticipates the new Newberry County location to be completed by spring. 

“Sea Pro Boats, LLC is pleased and excited to be part of a growing county that can offer many different employment options as well as produce a product for our customers that is of top quality and made with integrity," Jimmy Hancock, Sea Pro Boats president, said in the governor's office release. "We pride ourselves in being a family-oriented business and treat our employees with respect and dignity while providing them with the satisfaction that they are manufacturing a well-built boat that will be around for a long time.” 

Interested job applicants should contact April Sligh at asligh@seaprofg.com.