For years, the Pee Dee has quietly served as one of South Carolina’s most important economic regions. Today, however, the market is gaining increased attention from developers, investors, retailers, and industrial users who recognize the area’s strategic location, expanding infrastructure, and business-friendly environment.
While larger markets often receive the spotlight, the Pee Dee offers many of the same advantages at a lower cost and with significant room for future growth.
A Strategic Location for Business
One of the region’s greatest advantages is its accessibility. Florence sits at the intersection of Interstate 95 and Interstate 20, providing direct access to major markets throughout the Southeast. Businesses operating in the Pee Dee can efficiently reach customers and suppliers across South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and beyond.
In addition to its interstate connectivity, the region benefits from access to rail service, regional airports, nearby ports, and major highways including US-52, US-76, US-301, Hwy 327, and Hwy 378. This transportation network continues to attract companies seeking efficient distribution and logistics operations.
Industrial Growth Continues to Drive Investment
Industrial development remains one of the strongest sectors of the regional commercial real estate market.
Manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution users continue to recognize the advantages of locating in the Pee Dee due to its excellent connectivity, including competitive operating costs, available land, and access to a skilled workforce.
With continued investment in industrial facilities and supporting infrastructure, demand for industrial properties and development-ready sites remains healthy throughout Florence County and the surrounding region.
Retail Follows Population and Employment Growth
As employment opportunities expand, retail development often follows.
Florence continues to serve as the retail hub for much of the Pee Dee, drawing consumers from surrounding communities for shopping, dining, healthcare, and entertainment. National retailers continue to evaluate opportunities throughout the region, while local businesses benefit from steady consumer demand and continued investment in commercial corridors.
Areas along West Palmetto Street, David H. McLeod Boulevard, and other established retail corridors continue to see activity, while emerging growth areas present opportunities for future development.
Florence has revitalized its downtown areas keeping its southern charm and creating a space for new businesses to join the area.
Opportunities for Landowners
The region’s continued growth creates opportunities for commercial landowners.
Properties with strong visibility, highway frontage, utility access, or proximity to growing commercial corridors may appeal to developers, retailers, medical users, or industrial companies. In many cases, landowners may have options beyond a traditional sale, including long-term ground leases or build-to-suit development opportunities.
Understanding the highest and best use of a property is often the first step toward maximizing its value.
Recent national retailers developing in Florence include Chipotle, Dunkin Donuts, Baskin Robbins, 7 Brew, and Dutch Bros among many others.
Looking Ahead
The Pee Dee is well positioned for continued commercial growth. Its transportation network, diverse economy, available development sites, and expanding business community continue to attract investment from both local and national companies.
While every commercial real estate decision depends on market conditions, property characteristics, and business objectives, the long-term outlook for the region remains encouraging.
At PLC Commercial Real Estate, we closely monitor market activity across Florence and the greater Pee Dee region to help property owners, investors, developers, landlords, and tenants make informed decisions.
Whether you’re considering selling commercial property, leasing space, pursuing a ground lease, or exploring development opportunities, understanding the local market is the foundation for making sound real estate decisions.
About PLC Commercial Real Estate
PLC Commercial Real Estate provides brokerage and advisory services throughout the Pee Dee and Coastal South Carolina. Our team specializes in commercial sales, leasing, land transactions, investment properties, tenant representation, landlord representation, and development consulting. Through our Market Intelligence series, we share local insights and market trends to help clients stay informed about commercial real estate opportunities across the region.
Contact
Catie McGovern | Marketing Coordinator | catie@plccommercial.com
