The Phenix City region and the State of Alabama offer a supportive environment that encourages business success. That environment has resulted in international attention and continued job growth and investment across a number of industry sectors.
Aerospace
Alabama has a vibrant history in aviation, aerospace, and defense and has been integral to the success of U.S. space and defense programs. Companies like Airbus, Boeing, Commercial Jet, GE Aviation, GKN, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, PPG Aerospace, and United Launch Alliance call Alabama home. Pratt and Whitney, located just across the river in Columbus, is a world leader in the design, manufacture, and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units.
Automotive
Alabama’s success in the automotive industry began in 1997 when the first M-Class rolled off the production line in Vance. Mercedes-Benz, Honda, and Hyundai collectively produce 11 passenger vehicle models, and Toyota produces 4-cylinder, V6, and V8 engines. They are joined by a growing list of automotive suppliers such as Kamtek, Lear, ZF Chassis, Topre, Gestamp, MOBIS, Fleetwood Metals, North American Lighting, and Mando. South Korean-based company, ILJIN Alabama, has planted roots in Phenix City, and distributes wheel bearings to Kia and Hyundai.
Chemical
Alabama’s chemical products industry employs more than 9,300, and is the second-largest exporter in the state. Alabama is home to chemical companies such as Akzo Nobel, BASF, Daikin, Evonik Degussa, Huntsman, Occidental, SABIC, Solutia, and Syngenta.
Distribution
Ace, Dollar General, Home Depot, McLane, Target, SYSCO, and Wal-Mart are among the nationally known companies with major distribution operations in the state. Alabama’s interstate system allows companies to access over 160 metropolitan areas in a 600-mile radius.
Food Production
Food production and beverage product industries account for over 13% of manufacturing jobs in Alabama. Alabama is home to several large food production companies including Tyson Foods, Zeigler, Southeastern Meats, Pepsi Cola Bottling, Mayfield Dairy Farms, Coca Cola Bottling, and Buffalo Rock Vending.
Forest Products
With the second largest timberland base in the United States, nearly 23-million acres, it is no wonder that forest products are a key industry in Alabama and one of the largest exports. Forest product exports were valued at over $1 billion in 2013. Companies like Boise Cascade, Georgia Pacific, International Paper, Cascades Sonoco, SCA, Wellborn, and Weyerhaeuser call Alabama home.
Information Technology
Employing approximately 15,000 people, Alabama’s IT companies generate over $1 billion in annual revenue and serve such distinct industries as banking and finance, government, education, consumer products, GIS, and utilities automation. Google recently announced their plans to open a data center in Jackson County, north of Phenix City.
Metals
Alabama has a strong presence is both primary metal and fabrication and has welcomed a number of new companies in recent years. Companies such as ArcelorMittal, Outokumpu Stainless, Golden Dragon Precise Copper Tube, Nucor, SSAB Steel, U.S. Pipe, and U.S. Steel call Alabama home.
Plastics & Rubber
Over 200 plastic and rubber product establishments are located in Alabama. Companies such as 3M, BF Goodrich, Goodyear, Webster Industries, Ansell, Rain Bird, Rehau, and Showa Best Glove call Alabama home.