Vac-U-Lok, founded in 1997 and based in Rockville, Illinois, will soon be moving to Greenville, South Carolina. Doug Green, president and founder, sees the advanced manufacturing focus of the Upstate as a natural for growing their business. The company manufactures vacuum chucks and vacuum tables, vacuum systems, safety accessories, coolant return systems and vacuseal gaskets. Vac-U-Lok also produces custom-built equipment for its clients ranging in industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical devices, defense and consumer goods. Vac-U-Lok is the only manufacturer in the United States that is completely devoted to designing innovative workholding solutions using vacuum.

The entire company headquarters and its workholding systems will be moving to the upstate. Vac-U-Lok will be located in Greer, on Concourse Way. The building is currently undergoing remodel and up fitting to accommodate the manufacturing company.

Plans are in place to hire 3 to 6 more employees before the end of the year. Officials say collaboration with staffing and recruiting companies for hiring will begin early fourth quarter and any company updates or announcements will also be made at that time. Positions will be available for machinists, mechanical engineers, and administrative and sales professionals.