Nephron Pharmaceuticals plans to open a $100 million medical grade nitrile glove making operation in the West Columbia area.

As a separate company, it will create 250 new jobs in Lexington County.

Nephron CEO Lou Kennedy and her husband Bill joined Gov. Henry McMaster in announcing the new business partnership

Nephron Nitrile’s new plant is near completion.

Their 1st-year goal is to make 3 billion gloves.

The plant will be open 24 hours a day every day.

The governor said he wants the state to focus on becoming a manufacturing “mecca’ for the world.

He said he has given executive orders and created an opportunity zone to help Nephron and other SC manufacturers expand.

Kennedy said partnerships with SC and Korean businesses have helped the construction of the plant.

The announcement ceremony took place in a large tent at Nephron filled with mayors from multiple municipalities, state senators and representatives.

Nephron has become a major player in boosting the economy in the Midlands.

Don’t be surprised if they do something else big soon.