Luxury Real Estate Firm is SC Small Business of the Year

MBC SBA 2025

By Ross Norton

The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce has named Marchant Bateman & Co., a real estate team under Blackstream Christies International Real Estate, as the recipient of its inaugural Small Business of the Year Award.

The award honors the firm for its "excellence in business performance, visionary leadership and lasting community impact," according to a news release.

Presented on April 29 during the S.C. Chamber's Small Business Day at the Statehouse, the award highlights Marchant Bateman & Co's role as a voice in the Upstate's luxury real estate market. The team was selected from top small businesses across the state for its sustained growth, client-centered innovation and meaningful contributions to community development, the release stated.

"Winning this award is both humbling and energizing," co-founder Tom Marchant said in the release. "We've built our business on relationships, integrity and a deep belief in Greenville's potential. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of our entire team, and we're incredibly proud to represent the Upstate at this level."

Marchant Bateman & Co. named South Carolina Small Business of the Year for leadership, growth and impact in Greenville's luxury real estate market. (Photo/ Merchant Bateman)
Marchant Bateman & Co. named South Carolina Small Business of the Year for leadership, growth and impact in Greenville's luxury real estate market. (Photo/ Merchant Bateman)

Led by Marchant and Kendall Bateman, Marchant Bateman & Co. brings a combination of experience, market insight and service, the firm says. As one of Greenville's top-selling producers, Marchant has 20 years of direct real estate experience and more than 30 years of business experience. Bateman, a top-producing Realtor with 13 years of specialized experience in both real estate and the homebuilding industry, offers knowledge of design, market trends and client relations.

"Our goal has always been to go beyond transactions," Bateman said in the release. "We want to be part of what makes Greenville an extraordinary place to live and invest. This award reminds us that small businesses have the power to make a big impact, and we're honored to be part of that movement."

This year's Small Business Day gathered more than 200 entrepreneurs, lawmakers and business leaders from across South Carolina and featured remarks from Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Senate President Thomas Alexander, and House Speaker Murrell Smith. The event celebrated the role small businesses play in driving economic growth and enriching the fabric of communities across the state, the release stated.

Marchant Bateman & Co, an elite real estate team within Blackstream Christie's International Real Estate, stands as a leading force in the Upstates luxury real estate market. Led by Tom Marchant and Kendall Bateman, the team is known for its exceptional client service, elevated marketing strategy, and unmatched knowledge of the Greenville market. Whether serving longtime residents or newcomers, Marchant Bateman & Co. delivers a tailored, strategic experience grounded in integrity, precision, and results. For more information, please visit www.marchantbateman.com

Blackstream Christie's is an affiliate of Christie's International Real Estate, with offices in Greenville, Lake Keowee and Hilton Head, as well as Asheville.