The location you need. The life you want.  This is the tagline accompanying a new logo for the Economic Development arm of York County. This roll out is the first of a three-phased process that will include a complete revamp of its marketing brand and resources, to include a new logo and website, as well as improved collateral materials and reporting tools, just to name a few.  

Private investors from the York County Growth Partners funded the effort. All involved share a common vision – convey that York County, South Carolina is a premier place to do business in the Southeast. 

The first phase of the process included a survey that was sent to over 300 business owners, elected officials, site location consultants, commercial real estate brokers, and economic development professionals both locally and regionally. The goal was to gain an understanding of  York County’s position in the marketplace. 

Common threads and strengths were seen throughout the responses, some pointing back to the county’s ideal location, access to transportation and quality of life. All feedback was compiled to guide the design rational for the new logo, replacing the one created over two decades ago for York County Economic Development.  

David Swenson, Director for York County Economic Development, recently shared his thoughts on the organization’s branding efforts. “The logo reflects many of the overarching themes revealed during the survey process. So much has changed for the better over the last two decades here – it was time to update our brand to more accurately reflect who we are and what York County has to offer here in South Carolina.”   

Chairman of York County Council Britt Blackwell shared that sentiment. “Many (companies) have succeeded here and are quick to tell you that York County is looking more attractive than ever these days. Many see it as the premier location in the Charlotte region. Business owners want to stay here, grow here and live here.”

“We are increasingly hearing from companies a desire to continue to grow and operate here. The goal is that when all phases of the rebrand are complete, we are better able to share those success stories and more effectively provide information to prospects and existing businesses. At the end of the day we will have a better avenue to communicate and recruit – locally, regionally and internationally.” said Swenson

York County Economic Development Board Chairman Robb Hudson added that the process was much needed and long overdue. “It is important that we are able to maximize the attraction to our county, especially in regards to reflecting the changes within the county over the past decade or more.”

“It is key to harness the momentum the county has seen and be able to share it both regionally and internationally, ” Hudson added. “This new brand comes at a good time for the county, especially with the string of recent announcements. It definitely helps us better represent the unbelievable economic development that is occurring here.”

Phase one of the process will roll out immediately, while focus shifts to the creation of the new website and other components included in phases two and three. The remaining phases of the brand initiatives are slated to be complete this summer.