FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Summerville, SC – October 23, 2025
Knight’s Companies, a leading supplier of ready-mix concrete and construction materials, has expanded its product offering with the acquisition of Murray Mines, a respected producer of high-quality construction and specialty sands based in Dorchester County, South Carolina.
Murray Mines has supplied superior materials to Knight’s Companies for many years and has been a trusted name in the Lowcountry construction industry for over seven decades. In the early 1950s James (Jim) Hayes, the son of James and Jerusha Knight Hayes, approached his brother-in-law, O.C. Murray and his son James Murray about forming a sand mine business along Hwy 17A. The family business grew under the sustained 52-year leadership of James (Ray) Murray, who expanded its operations and product offerings across the South Carolina coast.
“After over 50 years of operating this business, I knew it was important to pass it along to someone who shared the same values and respect for hard work,” said Ray Murray. “I’ve known the Knight family since the early days, doing business with Pete’s father, Bud, starting over 50 years ago. The Knights have always been good people and trustworthy partners. I’m glad to see the operation remain family-led and locally owned. I’m pleased with how the transaction came together and excited to see the improvements they’ll bring. It’s a good feeling to be retired knowing Murray Mines is in capable hands.”
The acquisition strengthens Knight’s Companies vertical integration and continues its commitment to investing in locally sourced materials and South Carolina-based operations. The addition of sand production strengthens the company’s role as a comprehensive materials provider – serving concrete producers, site contractors, utility companies, and developers with a reliable local source for premium sand.
“Murray Mines has been a trusted partner to Knight’s Companies for more than 30 years, providing the high-quality concrete sand and materials that have supported our operations across the Lowcountry,” said Pete Knight, President of Knight’s Companies. “Welcoming Murray Mines into the Knight’s family is a perfect match given our long-standing relationship and shared commitment to quality and community. Ray Murray and his family have built a company grounded in integrity and hard work, and we’re honored to continue that standard as we move forward together.”