STL Expands U.S. Presence with New Palmetto Plant
STL (Sterlite Technologies Ltd.) has officially opened its new optical fiber cable manufacturing plant in Lugoff, South Carolina. The $56 million facility, called the Palmetto Plant after the state tree, marks STL’s first U.S. manufacturing site and a major milestone in its “Made in America” strategy.
The 168,000‑square‑foot facility will create more than 150 jobs, boosting local employment and strengthening the supply chain for advanced fiber optic solutions. It was inaugurated by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and celebrated by Ankit Agarwal, STL’s Managing Director and Whole‑Time Director.
Promoting “Made in America” Optical Solutions
Paul Atkinson, CEO of STL’s Optical Business Division, explained that this is the company’s first optical fiber cable production base in the United States. “Our goal is to transform billions of lives by connecting the world,” he said. “This plant will help expand digital access across America’s rural regions.”
STL has long served U.S. customers through its global operations. However, localizing production allows the company to meet demand faster and support initiatives for 5G, FTTx, and rural broadband deployment.
Advanced Technology for a Connected Future
The new plant specializes in high‑fiber‑count cables, high‑capacity ribbonized cables, and rugged designs suited for rural areas. These innovations will enhance network performance and reliability, supporting the nation’s expanding digital infrastructure.
STL operates in more than 150 countries and holds multiple patents for advanced fiber optic designs. The company is listed on both the Bombay Stock Exchange and the National Stock Exchange of India.
Strengthening Local Partnerships
STL has also built strong local relationships, notably with TruVista, a South Carolina‑based broadband provider. Since 2021, STL has supplied TruVista with optical fiber cables that support rural network expansion across the state.
“TruVista even connects fiber to our South Carolina plant,” an STL statement noted, highlighting the collaboration. The companies plan to expand their partnership further to speed up fiber‑to‑the‑home (FTTH) growth throughout the region.
Toward a Sustainable and Global Operation
Beyond the U.S., STL operates six manufacturing facilities in India, including the country’s first optical fiber cable plant to earn Zero Waste to Landfill certification. This commitment to sustainability mirrors STL’s global goal: delivering next‑generation fiber technology while protecting the environment.