GSA Daily Staff Report
Published Nov. 16, 2009

TSP, a Liberty-based manufacturer and distributor of irrigation products, turf equipment and pumping systems, has been named South Carolina’s third fastest-growing company. The Upstate continues to dominate the awards program, capturing 14 spots within the 25 winners of the S.C. Fastest-Growing Companies 2009 Competition.

The Capital Corp. and the state Chamber of Commerce honored the top 25 winners on Nov. 12. TSP of Liberty placed third in this year’s competition with a 133% growth in revenue.

“South Carolina is home to some of the most innovative companies in the nation,” said Otis Rawl Jr., president and CEO of the S.C. Chamber of Commerce. “Congratulations to the 2009 Fastest Growing Companies that are excelling and setting the example as superb organizations for our state’s great workforce to prosper.”

With 11 companies on the top 25 list, the Greenville area had the most award winners. However, the top two companies came from the Lowcountry and the Midlands.

Direct Source Imports LLC, an international wood purveyor headquartered in Mt. Pleasant, was named the top company with revenue growth of 225% in 2008. Direct Source Imports provides a full spectrum of wood products used in the construction industry. They specialize in a wide array of exotic woods as well as international and domestic reclaimed, salvaged and “green” product lines.

Arnold Construction Corp. in Columbia, a commercial and multi–family general contractor and design-build firm, came in second place in this year’s competition with a 153% increase in revenue.

Acument IT LLC, a Greenville technology company, finished No. 19.

“Receiving this recognition two years in a row is quite an honor,” said David Pence, president and CEO. “Adding employees, particularly in this economy, tells you that we are doing something right. We strive to provide consistent value as all companies must do in order to maintain and increase market share.”

Marketplace Staffing, established in 1996, was named the 23^rd fastest-growing company.

“We are extremely pleased and humbled to be recognized among South Carolina’s top performing organizations,” said Ray Lattimore, president and CEO. “Like any smart organization, we don’t try to be all things to all people. So while we work in many industries and markets, we have particularly deep expertise that we apply to understanding and meeting client needs, providing the type of talent that makes a positive difference in their operations every day.”

Yeargin Potter Shackelford Construction No. 14 on this year’s list, has made the top 25 four of the past five years. YPS is a full-service general contractor headquartered in Greenville.

In all, 15 of the top 25 are companies with revenues exceeding $10 million annually, with remaining honorees having revenues under $10 million. Median revenue for all finalists was $10.9 million.