/PRNewswire/ -- AMAROK, an industry-leading perimeter security company, today announced it has completed a strategic investment in Evolon Technology, Inc.,...

IKO, AMAROK expansions To Create 500 South Carolina jobs. In Chester County, IKO opens two manufacturing plants, and security firm AMAROK expands its Columbia headquarters. 03/25/2026 In Chester County, South Carolina, IKO North America has opened two new manufacturing facilities - a fiberglass plant and glass mat plant - marking the completion of more than $500 million in investments to advance the company's vertically integrated production capabilities in North America. A global provider of roofing, waterproofing, and insulation, IKO operates more than 35 manufacturing plants throughout North America and Europe. IKO's two new facilities are located along Lancaster Highway near the city of Chester and include a fiberglass manufacturing plant and a 325,000-square-foot glass mat production facility that utilizes output from the adjacent fiberglass plant. Glass mat is a critical component in asphalt shingle production, and the new facility will support the company's network of shingle manufacturing operations. Together, the new plants are expected to create nearly 200 full-time jobs. "This grand opening represents a major milestone for IKO and a proud moment for our entire organization," said David Koschitzky, CEO of IKO North America. "This year is particularly special as we celebrate 75 years of IKO. As a family-owned and operated business, we are especially proud to invest in communities like Chester County and to create meaningful, long-term opportunities." Attending the event were notable officials and dignitaries, including Pamela Evette, Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina; Courtney Jackson, Constituent Services Representative for U.S. Senator Tim Scott; Freddie Gault, Senior Field Representative for the Office of U.S. Representative Ralph Norman; Senior Trade Commissioner Michael Mancini, representing Rosaline Kwan, the Government of Canada's Consul General to the Southeast United States; Randy Ligon, Member of the South Carolina House of Representatives; and Robert Long, Director of Chester County Economic Development. At the grand opening event, attendees had the opportunity to tour both facilities and experience the manufacturing process firsthand, gaining a live, end-to-end view of fiberglass and glass mat production. Security firm AMAROK expands HQ in Columbia, SC. And in the capital city of Columbia, security solutions provider AMAROK, LLC is expanding its operations with a new headquarters facility. The company's $69 million investment will create 296 new jobs in South Carolina. Already based in downtown Columbia, AMAROCK provides integrated electric fencing solutions along with video surveillance and monitoring, access control, and lighting. Serving clients in 49 states, the company has more than 600 employees nationwide - to accommodate its growing local workforce, AMAROCK is building a 125,000-square-foot headquarters facility in the city's BullStreet District. Said AMAROK CEO Mark Wesley, "Over the past eight years, AMAROK has experienced tremendous growth. As a result, it became clear that it was time to identify a new location for our national headquarters - one that could also serve as a long-term home for more than 500 employees that we will have in the Palmetto State. We couldn't ask for a better partner than South Carolina, and we look forward to continuing to build on our culture of family, teamwork and shared purpose." The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project, which is located within Richland County. The council also awarded a $200,000 Set-Aside grant to the county to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction. "AMAROK's $69 million expansion in Richland County is a testament to the skilled workforce and business-friendly environment that keep companies choosing South Carolina. We are proud to have national leaders like AMAROK investing in our state and creating good-paying jobs for our communities," said Governor Henry McMaster. "Richland County is home to a growing number of companies who put down roots and grow here," said Richland County Council Chairwoman and Columbia Area Development Partnership Co-Chair Jesica Mackey. "AMAROK is a great example of a local business that has expanded nationally by tapping into the talents of the skilled Columbia area workforce. We wish AMAROK continued success as they take this exciting next step in their company's more than 50-year journey." Operations are expected to be online by the end of 2028. Anne Cosgrove is the Editorial Director of Business Facilities. With more than 20 years of experience covering site selection, facilities operations, and the forces shaping economic development, she collaborates with site selectors and industry stakeholders to deliver insights for business relocation and expansion decisions. Outside of work, Cosgrove can be found reading a book or spending time outdoors along the Jersey Shore. Across Virginia, strategic investments in education, hands-on training, and apprenticeship programs are strengthening the talent pipeline in real time. Innovative companies looking to test, build, and scale quickly are turning to Ohio for their next chapter of growth. 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AMAROK announces $69 million headquarters expansion and 296 new jobs in Richland County. Mar 24, 2026 AMAROK, LLC announced on Mar. 24 that it will expand its operations in Richland County with a new headquarters facility, investing $69 million and creating 296 new jobs. The perimeter security solutions provider said the new building will be located at the corner of Freed Street and Boyce Street in Columbia's BullStreet District. The expansion highlights continued economic growth in South Carolina, with officials noting the positive impact on local employment and business reputation. AMAROK currently employs more than 600 people nationwide and serves clients across 49 states. Mark Wesley, CEO of AMAROK, said, "Over the past eight years, AMAROK has experienced tremendous growth. As a result, it became clear that it was time to identify a new location for our national headquarters - one that could also serve as a long-term home for more than 500 employees that we will have in the Palmetto State. We couldn't ask for a better partner than South Carolina, and we look forward to continuing to build on our culture of family, teamwork and shared purpose." Governor Henry McMaster said, "AMAROK's $69 million expansion in Richland County is a testament to the skilled workforce and business-friendly environment that keep companies choosing South Carolina. We are proud to have national leaders like AMAROK investing in our state and creating good-paying jobs for our communities." McMaster prioritized supporting South Carolinians through economic development, public safety, education and heritage preservation according to the official website: official website. Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III added support by saying that additional job creation would further establish Richland County as a leading location for corporate headquarters. Jesica Mackey, Chairwoman of Richland County Council and Co-Chair of Columbia Area Development Partnership said,"Richland County is home to a growing number of companies who put down roots and grow here. AMAROK is a great example of a local business that has expanded nationally by tapping into the talents of the skilled Columbia area workforce. We wish AMAROK continued success as they take this exciting next step in their company's more than 50-year journey." The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to this project while also awarding a $200,000 Set-Aside grant to assist with site preparation costs. McMaster led as the state's chief executive beginning Jan. 24, 2017; he secured full terms through re-elections held in both 2018 and 2022 according to information from his official website. His authority extends across governance throughout South Carolina where he manages government operations under constitutional guidelines according to his office. McMaster maintains an official office at the State House located at 1100 Gervais Street in Columbia according to public records. Operations at AMAROK's new facility are expected by late 2028.