Aiken Manufacturing Plant Could Be Sold to New Buyer
Aiken, SC – A manufacturing plant just north of Aiken might be facing a change in ownership. The plant, owned by Newman Technology, could be sold to a Delaware company called Gen2 Aiken Real Estate LLC. This information was shared by City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh in a recent communication to the Aiken City Council.
Details About the Plant and Potential Sale
The Newman Technology plant sits on 41.74 acres in Ventures Industrial Park, which is conveniently located near the Aiken Regional Airport and the intersection of Interstate 20 and U.S. Route 1. This location is advantageous for transportation and logistics.
Newman Technology, which is based in Ohio, specializes in manufacturing door sashes, door frames, and exterior trim pieces. The company operates several plants, including locations in Aiken, Alabama, and even in Mexico.
While not much is known about Gen2 Aiken Real Estate LLC, it has been confirmed that if the sale goes through, the facility will continue to be utilized for manufacturing purposes. There are two companies in Delaware with the name “Gen2” – Gen2 Aiken LLC and Gen2 Aiken Real Estate LLC. Both were founded on April 22, 2024, and both have a corporate registration service listed as their registered agent.
First Right of Refusal
The city of Aiken holds what is called a first right of refusal for this property, which means the city has the option to buy the property before it can be sold to any other buyer. In order for Gen2 Aiken Real Estate LLC to complete the purchase, the Aiken City Council must decide not to exercise its right to buy first.
During the city council’s upcoming meeting on August 26, 2024, they will discuss the first reading of an ordinance that will officially decline their first right of refusal on the property. If that decision is made, the sale could proceed without further delays.
Upcoming Council Meeting Agenda
The Aiken City Council will have more on their agenda during this upcoming meeting. They will also be considering:
- The second readings of ordinances that would include the proceeds from the sale of Newberry Hall into the city budget
- Approval of a dentist office project for the Village at Woodside
- Approval for a new building façade in Aiken Towne Park
- Annexations of single-family homes located at 333 East Pine Log Road and 1109 Evans Road
- A resolution to provide city water and sewer service to a subdivision near the Shaw plant
To allow for community engagement, the meeting is set to start at 7 p.m. in the council chambers located on the third floor of the Municipal Building at 111 Chesterfield St. SW. Prior to this meeting, a worksession will take place at 6 p.m. in Room 315, where council members will receive an update on the new water treatment plant currently under construction.
Community Impact
If the sale goes through, it could have significant implications for Aiken’s economy and job market. The city administration is aware of the importance of retaining manufacturing jobs in the area, and the decision of the city council will be closely watched by residents and stakeholders alike.
As the city prepares for this important decision, residents are encouraged to keep informed and consider attending the upcoming council meeting to voice their opinions or ask questions regarding the potential sale and plans for the plant.
