Hampton Lumber, which has mills in Randle and Morton, to build new sawmill in South Carolina

Hampton Lumber, which has mills in Randle and Morton, announced in a recent news release its plans to build a new sawmill in Allendale County, South Carolina.

The new mill will specialize in producing Southern yellow pine framing lumber. This will be the company’s first new sawmill on the East Coast. Once fully operational, it will provide 125-140 new jobs in the area.

“Hampton Lumber’s new operation in Allendale County will be a notable addition to our state’s forestry industry, while also providing opportunities for our people and contributing to the local economy,” South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster stated in the news release. “We are proud the company recognized South Carolina as the ideal home for its first East Coast mill and look forward to supporting its success in our state.”

Hampton Lumber is committed to operating one of the most efficient dimension lumber mills in the region, according to the release. The facility will help meet the growing demand for housing materials while creating high-quality jobs and fostering long-term economic growth in the area.

“The enthusiastic, heartfelt support from the state and local community helped us come to the conclusion that this is the right location,” said Hampton Lumber CEO Randy Schillinger. “We look forward to building partnerships in the area and supporting the communities of Allendale County.”

Hampton Lumber brings over 80 years of experience in the sawmill business to this new venture. A fourth-generation, family-owned company, Hampton currently operates nine sawmills in Oregon, Washington and British Columbia. The new mill will complement these existing operations and help the company diversify its product offerings, the company stated.

“Our deep roots in the Pacific Northwest have shaped our values of integrity, sustainability and community engagement — principles that will guide how we operate in Allendale County,” Schillinger said.

Construction of the mill is expected to begin later this year, with operations slated to commence in early 2027.