Although it may not receive as much attention as larger cities, Greenville, SC, is nevertheless a powerhouse when it comes to manufacturing in the Southeast. From its humble beginnings as a key hub for textiles and apparel, Greenville’s manufacturing landscape is much more diverse and forward-thinking. From the auto industry to aerospace, the city is a force to be reckoned with not just in the United States but also worldwide. Many of the biggest names in the manufacturing world have established presences in Greenville, and the business-friendly atmosphere and conditions draw more manufacturers here all the time.
What makes manufacturing in Greenville, SC, so successful? What are the challenges and opportunities that will play a role in defining its position for the foreseeable future? Read on to learn more about how the city has become so important for the manufacturing sector in the eastern half of the country and what the years to come may have in store for those companies who have taken up residence there.
The manufacturing industry in Greenville, SC
According to a recent survey conducted by IndustrySelect, Greenville is home to the most industrial jobs in South Carolina, with more than 23,500 workers in the city. More than 3,800 manufacturing companies call the state home, and Greenville and the surrounding communities make up a significant portion of that population. Among the most prominent industries that dominate manufacturing in Greenville, SC, include automotive manufacturing, aerospace components, advanced materials, plastics, food processing and heavy machinery and equipment. Some of the key reasons manufacturing in South Carolina remains so robust are its proximity to prestigious universities, a strong base of skilled workers and state incentives such as tax breaks and workforce training initiatives.
Largest manufacturing employers in Greenville
Greenville and its surrounding communities play host to many of the largest and most impressive names in manufacturing. Their presence not only serves as the anchor for the area’s industry but also helps attract others by demonstrating the many advantages of operating in the region. Among the most important manufacturers in Greenville, SC, include:
- BMW Manufacturing Co.: One of the world’s most respected and successful automakers, BMW also is one of the largest employers in Greenville, SC. This makes BMW a major driver of economic development.
- GE Power: The production of advanced power generation technologies in Greenville means a lot of innovation happens here.
- Michelin North America: Michelin not only manufactures tires in Greenville, but it also strives to bring about innovations in terms of sustainable production practices.
- Lockheed Martin: A leader in aerospace manufacturing and defense, Lockheed Martin’s presence in the Greenville area gives the area a high-tech presence that helps elevate adjacent industries.
Trends impacting Greenville’s manufacturing industry
Because of the sheer number of cutting-edge manufacturing operations working within its borders, Greenville is more than just a major production hub — it’s also out in front of the rest of the pack when it comes to major trends. The changes that occur within Greenville’s manufacturing base are sure to be felt throughout the rest of the industry in due time. Some of the biggest trends affecting manufacturers in Greenville include:
- Advanced manufacturing: Greenville’s manufacturers have been among the first to adopt new technologies such as automation, Industry 4.0, robotics and digital tools like the Industrial Internet of Things and artificial intelligence.
- Sustainable practices: Reducing waste is more than eco-friendly — it’s simply good business. The many manufacturers who call Greenville home are working to help the city live up to its name and become greener.
- Investment in infrastructure: Upgrading infrastructure to support advanced manufacturing operations is critical for helping the industry maintain forward momentum, and Greenville’s leadership understands this.
- Workforce development and training: SC Works is one of several organizations offering skills training and professional development services to individuals throughout Greenville and the rest of the state. These efforts are crucial for maintaining the skilled workforce manufacturing needs to remain competitive.
Challenges facing Greenville manufacturers
Naturally, manufacturers face numerous challenges even in an environment as favorable as Greenville. Among the most prominent of these are:
- Labor shortages: As knowledgeable workers retire and leave the workforce, there’s always the danger of a skills gap developing that can make it difficult to maintain production levels and grow.
- Supply chain disruptions: The manufacturing world is smaller than ever, with suppliers and producers around the globe increasingly dependent on each other. This means manufacturers are vulnerable to supply chain disruptions anywhere globally.
- Operational costs: Manufacturers continue to look for ways to streamline their operations to keep their overhead as low as possible in the face of rising costs.
- Market competition: Other Southeastern manufacturing hubs are competing with Greenville to build their own bases, meaning there’s always a risk of losing jobs to other communities.
Opportunities for manufacturing growth in Greenville
Despite the problems they may face, manufacturers in Greenville have a wide range of advantages that incentivize them to stay in the community. These include:
- Geography: Close to major markets and transportation networks, Greenville is in a great location for manufacturing.
- State and local investment: South Carolina and Greenville offer a wide range of incentives including tax breaks, grants and other funding opportunities.
- Technological innovation: The presence of many major players means Greenville already has the infrastructure to support emerging sectors such as electric vehicles, biotech and advanced materials.
- Export opportunities: Many Greenville manufacturing companies have established strong markets overseas.
Future outlook for Greenville’s manufacturing industry
Greenville is well-established as a significant locale for manufacturing in the Southeast, and there’s no reason to believe that will change any time soon. Given the state’s welcoming attitude to industry and the city’s community of industry-leading manufacturers, Greenville is poised to remain at the forefront of the sector for many years to come. As a leading provider of industrial maintenance expertise and services, ATS is here to provide Greenville’s manufacturers with all the support they need to keep their operations running as smoothly as possible. To learn more, reach out and speak with a member of our team today.
