News Summary

Kimberly-Clark Corporation has revealed plans for a $200 million expansion of its facility in Aiken County, creating 150 new jobs and enhancing supply chain capabilities. The new 1.1 million-square-foot automated distribution center aims to improve efficiency and is expected to be operational by Q2 2026. This expansion is part of a larger $2 billion investment nationwide, emphasizing the company’s commitment to modernization and growth in the competitive consumer products industry.

Aiken County, South Carolina

Kimberly-Clark Corporation has announced a $200 million expansion of its facility in Aiken County, which is set to create 150 new jobs and enhance the company’s supply chain capabilities. This expansion is part of a broader initiative involving a total investment of $2 billion across the United States, marking the largest domestic expansion by the company in over 30 years.

The expansion will include the development of a new 1.1 million-square-foot automated regional distribution center situated next to the existing Beech Island plant. This facility aims to improve product delivery efficiency and streamline shipping operations by utilizing advanced robotics and artificial intelligence-powered logistics systems.

The operational goal for the new distribution center is to be fully functional by the second quarter of 2026. The Beech Island plant, which began operations in 1968, currently employs between 1,500 and 2,000 workers and significantly contributes to the local economy.

Importance of the Expansion

Aiken County Council Chairman noted the critical role Kimberly-Clark has played in the local economy for several decades. Support from local leaders has been enthusiastic, highlighting the investment’s potential for economic growth and job creation in the region.

In February 2025, the Aiken County Council approved property tax incentives to support the expansion. Additionally, an ordinance was passed to rezone 16 tax parcels from Rural Development to Industrial Development status, facilitating the upcoming construction.

Kimberly-Clark’s Background

Founded in 1872 and headquartered in Texas, Kimberly-Clark is a prominent player in the consumer products industry, producing one-fourth of America’s toilet paper and major brands such as Scott, Cottonelle, Huggies, Kleenex, and Kotex. The company operates globally, selling its products in more than 170 countries and employing over 40,000 people worldwide.

Operations at the Beech Island plant make it one of Kimberly-Clark’s oldest facilities, and this expansion reflects the company’s commitment to enhancing its operational efficiencies and modernizing its supply chain strategy.

Future Initiatives

The expansion aligns with Kimberly-Clark’s broader supply chain transformation strategy, which emphasizes logistical advancements and improved product dispatch capabilities. The new distribution center is expected to significantly increase the site’s ability to direct-ship products, positioning the company for future growth in a competitive marketplace.

As the company continues to invest in its facilities and workforce, it remains focused on leveraging technology and innovation to better serve its customers and meet demand in a changing economic landscape.

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Kimberly-Clark Announces $200 Million Expansion in Aiken County