Advanced Manufacturing
For over two centuries, manufacturing has been at the heart of Southeast Ohio’s economy, evolving from its early industrial roots into a thriving hub for advanced production. Today, Southeast Ohio continues to offer manufacturers a competitive edge, with strategic infrastructure, abundant resources, and a deep tradition of craftsmanship that drives success.
Ohio has the 3rd largest manufacturing workforce in the country and the 4th largest GDP of any state.
Fast Facts
#1
largest workforce in glass product manufacturing
#2
state for product manufacturing GDP
Below
Taxes, wage rates, and utility costs below national and regional averages
3rd
largest manufacturing workforce
#1
state in forging and roll forming
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"Deciding to invest in Southeast, Ohio has been perfect for Speyside and has proven to be an outstanding decision. Since 2015 we have experienced everything we had hoped for, from talented people in the areas we operate, excellent help and resources from local and state government representatives, excellent services and infrastructure and the perfect geographic location for our business to thrive and grow."
Dan Whitmer / Speyside Bourbon Cooperage
Leading Advanced Manufacturing Companies in the Ohio SE Region
Advanced Manufacturing Stats
Ohio’s manufacturing began in the eastern and southern counties of the state over 200 years ago utilizing local ore and energy resources and the mighty Ohio River for transport. Today, those counties make up the Ohio Southeast region, which boasts more than 400 businesses in the advanced manufacturing sector and relies on a skilled workforce, abundant low-cost energy and the powerful Ohio River.
405
Businesses
11,946
industry workers
73%
More jobs in Advanced Manufacturing than the national average
8,656
Annual degrees completed in relevant industry fields
Key Regional Assets
Ohio has nine foreign trade zones and is the only state in the Midwest with direct shipping routes to Europe for both container and heavy goods. Our taxes, wage rates, and utility costs are below national and regional averages. Ohio taxes are some of the most favorable in the USA for manufacturing or any business selling goods and services outside of Ohio. In 2021, the Tax Foundation ranked Ohio 4th most favorable for capital-intensive manufacturers for mature firms and 3rd for capital-intensive manufacturing for new firms.
Why Ohio Southeast
The industry added over $900M into the region’s GRP.
Southeast Ohio is in close proximity to intermodal facilities in Columbus and local transload facilities
Average annual wages are 10% below the national average and up to 25% lower than nearby metro areas.
Rail service includes Norfolk Southern, CSX Transportation, local and regional railroads.
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