REI Automation, a Columbia-based company that designs and builds robotics, assembly lines and special-purpose machines for the automotive, medical, nuclear, electronics and consumer goods markets, is expanding its operations in Richland County.
The company’s $3 million investment is projected to create 35 new jobs.
Founded in 1990, REI is celebrating nearly 30 years in business in South Carolina as the factory automation industry expands with new applications and technologies in plants throughout the Southeast and around the world. As evidence of this healthy growth, REI was named one of the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies in the United States for 2019.
“This expansion reflects our continued commitment to the community and our confidence in Richland County’s workforce,” said Grant Phillips, president of REI Automation.
In 2006, REI Automation built a new design and assembly facility at 1240 Veterans Road in Columbia. This expansion of that facility follows expansions in 2010, 2014 and 2015.
“REI Automation’s expansion is indicative of how Richland County’s economy is adapting to the demands of an increasingly technology-oriented world,” said Paul Livingston, Chair of Richland County Council. “This expansion is a vote of confidence in our educated and capable workforce.”