STL, a global optical and digital solutions company, has officially opened its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, The Palmetto Plant, in Lugoff, South Carolina. Covering an impressive 168,000 square feet, this facility serves as STL’s North American Headquarters, demonstrating the company’s dedicated commitment to the US market.
The Palmetto Plant is a strategic investment and expansion effort that aligns with the growing demands for 5G, FTTx, and rural broadband solutions. It emphasizes STL’s Make in America vision and focuses on the production of optical solutions that meet future requirements. These include high-fiber count cables with reduced diameters, innovative designs like high-capacity ribbonized cables, and ruggedized designs tailored for rural deployments.
A key aspect of this initiative is the development of user-friendly optical connectivity products that are easy to deploy, monitor, and maintain. This addresses the skills shortage in the industry and ensures that industry standard quality levels are met. The facility also features comprehensive on-site testing, in line with industry-standard GR20 guidelines, to ensure the highest quality and reliability of its products.
In support of STL’s commitment to becoming net-zero by 2030, the Lugoff facility joins other global manufacturing units in striving for zero waste and reducing energy consumption. With over 150 employees, including skilled manufacturing associates and industry specialists, the Palmetto Plant is set to drive STL’s North American operations forward.
Governor Henry McMaster expressed his enthusiasm for the inauguration of STL’s manufacturing plant, stating that it marks a significant step forward for their state’s broadband efforts and will create new opportunities for the people of Kershaw County. Paul Atkinson, CEO of Optical Networking Business at STL, shared the excitement, emphasizing the company’s commitment to the US market and their larger purpose of connecting the world to transform billions of lives.