Defense contract finalized for 90 F-16 jets in Greenville

The Department of Defense has finalized a $62 billion, 10-year contract with Lockheed Martin Corp. for the production of 90 F-16 fighter jets to be built at the aerospace company’s Greenville location at the S.C. Technology and Aviation Center. The decision follows negotiations with Taiwan over an arms deal including the jets. (GSA Business Report)

Companies start operations at Greer’s Metro Court

JIDA Industrial Solutions Inc. and its subsidiary, Global Trade Logistics, have established operations in Greenville County at 154 Metro Court, Greer, a portion of which is a foreign trade zone. The company expects the new facility to create 78 jobs in the area. (GSA Business Report)

Florence County company forming, another expanding operations

Newly formed Effingham Pellets LLC is investing $5.4 million in a facility slated to be operational by June 2021. And SteelFab Inc. is expanding its Florence operations in a $5 million move expected to create 28 jobs. (Columbia Regional Business Report)

Loctek establishing operations in Clarendon County

The $5 million investment is expected to create 10 jobs. The company, founded in 1999, designs and manufactures height-adjustable desks and other office environment products. (Columbia Regional Business Report)

Swedish cart manufacturer moves to Spartanburg

FlexQube, a company that makes carts used in manufacturing plants, is settling into Spartanburg’s Spark Center, with plans to target the area’s auto industry. (GSA Business Report)

Adidas warehouse to hire 500 in Spartanburg

The German apparel company will hire warehouse workers and order processors, among other positions, at three upcoming drive-thru job fairs with human resources partner Randstand US. (GSA Business Report)

S.C. supply portal joins force with national PPE marketplace

The S.C. Emergency Supply Collaborative portal has teamed up with PPE Exchange, an online marketplace of 200-plus regional and national PPE suppliers. Would-be buyers can search for items, complete purchases and schedule orders through the site. (Columbia Regional Business Report)

Duncan manufacturer gifts shields to special needs students

Masks can thwart learning progress for students with special needs or speech impairments who depend on facial expression and lip movement, according to local educational leaders. One manufacturer has delivered a solution with 1,500 face masks. (GSA Business Report)