February 13, 2026

Charleston Industrial Boom: Major Facility Sale Signals Economic Strength

Charleston, SC, February 13, 2026

A significant industrial property transaction in Summerville highlights the region’s robust market and appeal for investment. The sale of a 448,765-square-foot warehouse underscores confidence in Charleston’s growth potential. Brokered by Avison Young, the facility was sold to California-based Goldrich Kest and is currently leased by IFA Rotorion, an automotive supplier. This development reflects ongoing investment and a resilient business environment, bolstering local job creation and economic stability.

A significant industrial property transaction in Summerville underscores the Lowcountry’s robust market and appeal for private investment, driving further growth in the region.

Introduction

Charleston, SC, continues to demonstrate its vibrant economic vitality, propelled by strategic private investments and a resilient business environment. The recent sale of a substantial industrial facility near Charleston is a testament to the ongoing confidence investors place in the Lowcountry’s capacity for growth and its supportive ecosystem for enterprises. This transaction not only highlights the appeal of well-located assets but also reflects the powerful impact of entrepreneurial innovation and strategic development in fostering a thriving economy. Such events signal a healthy market where capital deployment supports job creation and bolsters the region’s position as a key hub for logistics and manufacturing.

The consistent flow of private capital into critical sectors like industrial real estate underscores a market where sound economic principles are at play. When businesses and investors choose to expand or invest in Charleston, they are not only recognizing the immediate opportunities but also betting on the long-term stability and growth potential cultivated by a business-friendly climate. This environment, often characterized by responsive local governance and a focus on removing barriers to entry, is crucial for attracting and retaining the kind of robust industrial operations that strengthen our community’s economic fabric.

A Landmark Industrial Transaction

A substantial 448,765-square-foot warehouse and distribution facility, situated at 479 Trade Center Parkway within the strategically important Charleston Trade Center in Summerville, has recently been sold. This significant property, encompassing 32 acres, plays a vital role in the regional industrial landscape. The transaction was expertly brokered by Avison Young, with key professionals Erik Foster, Michael Wilson, and Alex Irwin from the firm leading the efforts. Additional local support was provided by Chris Skibinski from Avison Young’s Charlotte office and Alex Irwin from their Charleston office, highlighting the collaborative nature of such large-scale dealings.

The buyer of this notable asset is California-based Goldrich Kest. While the purchase price for the property remains undisclosed, the acquisition by such an entity underscores the national interest in Charleston’s industrial sector. The facility’s sole tenant is IFA Rotorion, a prominent automotive supplier that serves leading manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Ferrari, indicating the high-caliber operations housed within the property.

Charleston’s Industrial Market Resilience

The Charleston industrial market is currently undergoing a period of recalibration, demonstrating remarkable resilience after previous years saw record levels of development and deliveries. Despite this, the market has shown signs of stabilization, with availability rates flattening in 2025. A positive development was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2025, where the industrial market experienced its first decline in vacancy in three years, dropping by 30 basis points quarter-over-quarter to 14.3% overall. This signals an encouraging shift in market conditions, suggesting that demand is beginning to catch up with supply.

The demand-side story in the Lowcountry is compelling. In the wider Charleston industrial market, 1.2 million square feet more space has been occupied than vacated year-to-date. Furthermore, more than half of all leasing transactions in the first quarter of 2025 involved Class A properties, indicating a strong “flight-to-quality” among businesses seeking optimal operational environments. This trend speaks to the discerning nature of companies that prioritize efficient, modern facilities, which often translates into enhanced productivity and job stability.

The Port of Charleston: A Catalyst for Growth

Central to Charleston’s robust industrial activity is the Port of Charleston, recognized as the primary driver for the sector. In 2025, the Port handled just under 2.4 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) and is on track to surpass 2.5 million TEUs, which would set a new record since 2022. The ongoing major infrastructure projects at the Port are enhancing existing facilities and upgrading technology, which in turn intensifies the demand for industrial properties located in close proximity to the coast.

This strategic advantage provided by the Port reinforces Charleston’s role as a critical global logistics hub. Businesses that benefit from efficient import and export operations find the region particularly attractive, leading to increased investment in warehousing and distribution facilities. Such infrastructural assets are not just about facilitating trade; they are about connecting local businesses to global markets, empowering South Carolina entrepreneurs to compete on a worldwide stage, and enhancing Lowcountry economic growth.

Economic Development and Business Climate

Charleston County’s economy is powered by a dynamic blend of advanced manufacturing, global logistics, and innovation. Key industries contributing to this economic strength include aerospace, automotive, life sciences, and information technology and defense. The Charleston County Economic Development Department is dedicated to fostering this growth, focusing on recruiting new primary employers—such as manufacturers, research and development operations, corporate headquarters, and large distribution facilities—and ensuring the retention and expansion of existing ones.

The emphasis on a stable and competitive business climate, alongside efforts to encourage business start-ups, small business enterprises, and high-technology firms, creates a fertile ground for job creation and sustained prosperity. This supportive environment is reflected in the region’s employment figures. Year-over-year non-farm employment in Charleston rose by 3.4%, which was the highest rate among 102 major U.S. markets tracked in Q2 2024. Furthermore, Charleston was one of the few markets to see a decline in unemployment during the same period, falling by 10 basis points while the national rate increased by 20 basis points. These statistics highlight a vibrant job market and a proactive approach to economic well-being.

Conclusion

The recent sale of the substantial industrial facility in Summerville is more than just a real estate transaction; it is a clear indicator of the robust health and promising future of the Charleston County economy. Driven by strategic private investment, the unwavering resilience of businesses, and the critical role of the Port of Charleston, the region continues to solidify its reputation as a leading center for logistics, manufacturing, and innovation. The positive trends in job growth, coupled with a supportive business environment, create ample opportunities for South Carolina entrepreneurs and contribute significantly to overall Lowcountry economic growth. As Charleston continues its upward trajectory, supporting local businesses and engaging with economic development initiatives will be crucial to sustain this momentum and ensure a prosperous future for all.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What industrial facility was recently sold near Charleston, SC?

A 448,765-square-foot warehouse and distribution facility located at 479 Trade Center Parkway within Charleston Trade Center in Summerville was recently sold.

Which real estate firm brokered the sale of the industrial facility?

Avison Young brokered the sale of the industrial facility.

Who purchased the industrial property?

California-based Goldrich Kest purchased the 32-acre property.

Who is the sole tenant of the facility?

The facility’s sole tenant is IFA Rotorion, an automotive supplier.

What is the current state of the Charleston industrial market?

The Charleston industrial market is currently recalibrating, with development slowing after a period of record deliveries. Availability rates flattened in 2025, and the market saw a decline in vacancy by 30 basis points quarter-over-quarter in Q4 2025, marking the first decline in three years.

What role does the Port of Charleston play in the industrial market?

The Port of Charleston is the largest driver of industrial activity in the region, handling just under 2.4 million TEUs in 2025 and on pace to exceed 2.5 million TEUs, which would be a record. Major infrastructure projects at the Port increase demand for coastal proximity for industrial facilities.

What are some of the key industries driving Charleston County’s economy?

Charleston County’s economic engine is fueled by advanced manufacturing, global logistics, and innovation. Key sectors include aerospace, automotive, life sciences, and information technology and defense.

Key Features of the Industrial Facility Sale

Feature	Detail	Scope
Property Type	Warehouse and Distribution Facility	Local
Size	448,765 square feet	Local
Location	479 Trade Center Parkway, Summerville (Charleston Trade Center)	Local
Land Area	32 acres	Local
Broker	Avison Young	Global
Buyer	Goldrich Kest (California-based)	National
Sole Tenant	IFA Rotorion (Automotive Supplier)	Global
Market Context	Charleston Industrial Market Recalibrating, Demand for Class A space, Port-driven activity	Local
Economic Indicators	Highest non-farm employment growth among 102 major U.S. markets (Q2 2024), declining unemployment	National