Isuzu North America Corporation held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new 1,000,000-square-foot production facility in Piedmont, South Carolina. This event marks a major milestone in the company鈥檚 long-term commitment to the North American market. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including South Carolina Governor, Henry McMaster, Isuzu Motors Limited Chairman, Representative Director and CEO, Masanori Katayama, and the Japanese Ambassador to the United States, Shigeo Yamada. Each delivered remarks highlighting the importance of this investment for both the State of South Carolina and Isuzu鈥檚 global operations.
As part of the program, Governor McMaster and Chairman Katayama participated in a ceremonial gift exchange, and Isuzu leaders, state officials and community representatives participated in a symbolic turning of soil. To further commemorate the occasion, Yoshino cherry trees were planted on the site, symbolizing new beginnings and the enduring friendship between Japan and the United States. These trees are the same variety famously gifted by Japan to the United States in 1912, which now bloom each spring around the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C.
鈥淭his groundbreaking underscores our strong commitment to the North American market,鈥� said Noboru Murakami, Chairman and CEO of Isuzu North America Corporation. 鈥淲ith this new plant, we are getting closer to our customers and the market, strengthening our ability to serve them, and investing in the future. Our new facility will create jobs, contribute to the local economy, and provide a foundation for long-term growth and success.鈥�
Governor McMaster emphasized the significance of Isuzu鈥檚 investment in South Carolina. 鈥淭oday鈥檚 groundbreaking represents more than the start of a construction project 鈥� it is a reflection of South Carolina鈥檚 reputation as a destination for world-class companies,鈥� said The Honorable Henry McMaster, Governor of South Carolina. 鈥淚suzu鈥檚 presence here will strengthen our economy, provide opportunities for our people, and further demonstrate the benefits of investing in our state.鈥�