Wood milling company pledges to revamp Upstate textile plant, bring more than 200 jobs

A company that makes wood paneling, crown molding, shiplap and other pine construction products plans to invest $216 million in a manufacturing plant in Anderson County.

Adeptus USA’s pledged investment is expected to bring 217 new jobs to the small town of Honea Path, 25 miles south of Greenville.

“The tremendous commitment shown by the state of South Carolina, Anderson County and the local forestry community made it clear that this is the right place for Adeptus to invest and grow,” Adeptus USA CEO Billy White said in a statement. “This investment represents far more than a manufacturing operation — it reflects a long-term commitment to our employees, our customers, and the communities of Anderson County and the surrounding area.”

How SC’s once-dominating textile industry has transformed to supply new employers

Adeptus will move into Belton Industries’ shuttered textile manufacturing plant.

The revamped plant, expected to begin operations by the middle of next year, is the company’s first South Carolina location.

“Bringing a closed facility back to life and creating quality jobs makes this project an especially meaningful investment in our community,” Anderson County Councilman Greg Elgin said in a statement.

The new jobs come with an average wage of nearly $36 per hour, Elgin said. And total payroll at the plant will top $15 million.

At its peak, Belton Industries employed 132 people but had since declined. At the time of its closure in 2025, it had just 55 workers on staff, Elgin said.

In exchange for Adeptus’ revival of the plant, the state of South Carolina offered an $850,000 grant to help cover the cost of renovating the building. The state also approved income tax credits for the company worth $2,750 for each new job it brings.

The Anderson County Council also is expected to finalize a deal next week offering Adeptus a reduced property tax rate over the next 40 years.

Laws passed in 2017 and 2021 effectively lowered the property tax rate on manufacturers from 10.5% to 6%. This proposed deal takes the rate even lower — to 4% — plus additional incentives to further buy down the company’s tax bill by half for the first five years and 40% for five more years after.

The county approved a reduced property tax rate over the next 30 years.

The plant also offers a potential boost to a state timber industry that has struggled amid closures of major paper mills.

“Expanding and diversifying opportunities for our forestry sector is a major priority for South Carolina, and Adeptus’ investment is great news.” state Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers said in a statement.
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“We’re letting the world know that S.C. forests are open for business, and Adeptus’ announcement is evidence of the sustainable, high-quality, home-grown forest resources we have to offer, added Scott Phillips, the state forester.