Commerce Lexington is joining organizations nationwide in the celebration of Manufacturing Month, highlighting the significant contributions of the manufacturing industry to Fayette County and the Greater Lexington Region’s economy. 
Dating back to the early 1800s, Manufacturing has shown to be a vital part of our community’s success. Today, the sector compromises 596 establishments employing approximately 11,260 individuals and contributing over $2 billion to Fayette County’s GDP, proving itself to be a major driver of economic stability and opportunity for our region.
Mayor Linda Gorton emphasized this by declaring October as Manufacturing Month in Lexington-Fayette County. “Lexington’s strong economy is fueled in part by the success of our growing manufacturing industry,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “We continue to work closely with our workforce partners to attract manufacturers that create high-quality jobs and help keep our job market competitive and diverse.”
Currently, in the Greater Lexington Region, manufacturing represents 11.1% of total employment and accounts for 14.5% of the region’s GDP. Local manufacturers also contribute over $5.6 billion in purchases from regional suppliers, further strengthening the interconnectedness of Lexington’s economy and supporting a wide network of local businesses. These developments not only provide high-quality employment but also strengthen the broader regional economy through supplier networks and industries.
Recognizing its vital impact on the Greater Lexington Region and the entire state, Governor Beshear has officially proclaimed October as Manufacturing Month as well, highlighting the importance of manufacturing in driving economic growth and supporting communities across Kentucky. “Manufacturing is a huge reason our economy is thriving, supporting thousands of businesses and providing jobs for hundreds of thousands of Kentuckians,” said Gov. Beshear in a proclamation press release on October 1st. “Every day, Kentucky manufacturers play crucial roles in key industries including food and beverage; aerospace; automotive and electric vehicles; metals; agritech; health care; and many others. From company leaders to our talented workforce, we’re showing the world there’s no better place than Kentucky for manufacturing.”
Commerce Lexington has long championed the manufacturing industry, promoting the advantages of establishing and supporting businesses in Lexington. Bob Quick, President and CEO of Commerce Lexington, emphasized the sector’s significance: “Manufacturing has long been a cornerstone of the Greater Lexington Region, shaping our economy, workforce, and communities. From the craftsmanship behind our historic bourbon and barrel-making industries to today’s advanced technologies, the region blends tradition with innovation. Local manufacturers create meaningful jobs, drive economic growth, and fuel a culture of creativity and problem-solving. This Manufacturing Month, we honor the people and businesses whose work sustains our vibrant industry and continues to build a strong foundation for the future.”
As we celebrate Manufacturing Month, Commerce Lexington reaffirms its dedication to supporting the sector, ensuring it remains a driving force in the region’s economic development. By continuing to blend tradition with innovation, we can propel Fayette County and the Greater Lexington Region toward a prosperous and sustainable future. To learn more, visit https://locateinlexington.com/industry/advanced-manufacturing/.
Commerce Lexington is part of the Lexington Economic Partnership, a Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government initiative that promotes economic growth through strategic business recruitment and a strong Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program. For more information on Commerce Lexington’s efforts, visit https://locateinlexington.com/business-services/lexington-economic-partnership/.