Medical Device Manufacturer Opens $220M Charleston County Facility

SHL Medical has opened a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in North Charleston, investing $220 million and creating 300 jobs. 

The 360,000-square-foot facility will produce SHL Medical’s advanced autoinjectors which treat conditions like obesity, autoimmune disorders and rare diseases, according to a news release. The facility intends to address the rising demand for GLP-1 therapy drug delivery devices. 

“This facility marks a key step in our global expansion and strengthens our ability to meet the increasing demand for autoinjectors,” Ulrich Faessler, CEO of SHL Medical, said in the release. “South Carolina offers a strong pipeline of skilled labor and a favorable business environment, enabling us to scale up production while contributing to the region’s growth.” 

The North Charleston facility has advanced molding technology and fully automated assembly lines to maintain efficiency, the release said. SHL Medical also established production in Taiwan and Switzerland. 

“We are proud to expand our US operations and support the local community,” Kimberlee Steele, managing director of North America at SHL Medical, said in the release. “One of the most trusted autoinjector brands is now made in the USA, ensuring patients receive the essential devices they need to manage their health with independence.” 

According to the release, the new facility will contribute to SHL Medical’s track to deliver 1.5 billion devices to customers in 2025. 

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Paige Durham

SCbio is pleased to welcome Paige Durham to the team as communications coordinator to creatively and effectively communicate the value of the life science association’s programs and initiatives.

Durham will be responsible for developing and distributing high-quality content across multiple communications channels to build, advance and grow South Carolina’s life sciences industry, a key business sector for economic prosperity for the Palmetto State.

“SCbio is excited to welcome Paige to our team as our new communications coordinator. Paige brings fresh ideas and a strong background in communications that will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our engagement with our audience,” said SCbio President and CEO James Chappell. “We are confident that her skills and experience will be crucial in advancing our communication strategies and supporting our mission.”

Before joining SCbio, Durham was the Membership and Communications Manager at the South Carolina Pharmacy Association (SCPhA), where she used her photography, design and writing skills to create content tailored to pharmacy professionals. Durham’s effective communication skills guaranteed the delivery of brand-specific material that captured the eye of her audience.

During her time at SCPhA, Durham created and edited the Palmetto Pharmacist Journal, using her creative vision to showcase members, educational institutions and industry news. Her communications efforts successfully gained new followers for the organization over the course of a year, increasing brand visibility and promoting the pharmacy profession.

Durham holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management and a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the College of Charleston.

Tamia Sumpter

Tamia is a driven senior undergraduate Bioengineering student currently enrolled at Clemson University. With a strong foundation in her field, she has honed her skills through hands-on experience in research and development at Eli Lilly & Company. During her time in the ADME department, Tamia contributed significantly by working on siRNAs and their applications in finding In Vitro-In Vivo Correlation (IVIVC). Looking ahead, Tamia has set her sights on a promising career in law. She aspires to specialize in Intellectual Property Law, with a particular focus on serving as in-house counsel for leading medical device or pharmaceutical companies. Her enthusiasm for this role is palpable as she prepares to embark on her legal journey! She is also a proud member of the Omicron Phi chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., PEER Mentor for Clemson PEER/WiSE, and currently serves as the President of Clemson Bioengineering Organization (CBO). With her unique blend of scientific knowledge and legal interests, Tamia is poised to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare and life sciences industries.