Commerce Lexington is joining organizations across the country in celebration of Manufacturing Month, highlighting the significant contributions of the manufacturing industry to Fayette County and the Greater Lexington Region’s economy. In recognition of the industry’s vital role, Mayor Linda Gorton officially proclaimed October 4, 2024, as Manufacturing Day in Fayette County.
With a legacy that dates to the early 1800’s, manufacturing has long been a cornerstone of our community’s success. Today, the sector comprises 534 firms employing approximately
11,500 individuals and contributing over $2 billion to Fayette County’s GDP. This robust industry not only fuels our local economy but also enhances our regional identity.
“Lexington’s growing manufacturing sector today employs thousands of people, providing meaningful careers that support families, strengthen our local economy and quality of life,” Mayor
Linda Gorton said. “Declaring October 4, “Manufacturing Day” in Lexington, celebrates the many achievements of our local manufacturers and promotes awareness surrounding this vital industry.”
Commerce Lexington has long been a champion of the manufacturing industry, promoting the advantages of establishing and supporting businesses in Lexington. Since 2019, Fayette County has had 47 new locations or expansions announced, resulting in $136 million in capital investments and the creation of 1,000 new jobs from companies like Neogen, Bespoken Spirits, and Webasto. For a complete list of expansions and relocations in Greater Lexington, visit here.
Bob Quick, President and CEO of Commerce Lexington, emphasized the historical and regional connection: “The history of manufacturing in the Greater Lexington Region is deeply intertwined with our agricultural roots and natural resources. From the early gristmills powered by our waterways to the globally recognized bourbon industry, our region has always been a hub of innovation and production. This rich heritage provides a strong foundation for our modern manufacturing sector, which continues to evolve and diversify, driving economic growth and creating opportunities across Fayette County and the Greater Lexington Region.”
In the Greater Lexington Region, manufacturing represents 11.3% of total employment and accounts for 14.2% of the region’s GDP. Local manufacturers contribute over $5.6 billion in purchases from regional suppliers, further solidifying our interconnected economy. This regional synergy not only enhances our manufacturing capabilities but also promotes collaboration among businesses, educational institutions, and workforce development initiatives.
Reflecting on success in Woodford County, Bill Quigg, President and CEO of More Than a Bakery, shared insights from their decision to locate to the region nearly 10 years ago: “Selecting Central Kentucky as the home for More Than A Bakery’s cutting-edge manufacturing facility and headquarters was a strategic decision driven by various factors. The region’s vibrant community, proximity to essential resources, and the exceptional support from local government bodies and economic development teams played a pivotal role in our choice. Our company flourishes in this area due to the skilled workforce, business-friendly environment, and the collaborative spirit of the local partners. Central Kentucky offers the ideal setting for us to innovate, grow, and establish a lasting presence.”
Similarly, Jim Peyton, President of Kinemetrix, highlighted Lexington’s role in their growth: “Lexington has been pivotal to Kinemetrix success for nearly 30 years. The technologies behind our high-performance robotic assembly lines were forged here…The city’s prime location along the I-75 corridor with excellent highway, rail, air freight hub, and power generation infrastructure ensure fast, economical transportation and low-cost utilities. A strong talent pipeline from local universities, particularly the University of Kentucky, bolsters operations. Lexington’s vibrant manufacturing ecosystem, with its Toyota-influenced focus on process discipline and quality, is fueling our current expansion to further serve the electric vehicle and medical device markets.”
As we celebrate Manufacturing Day, Commerce Lexington reaffirms its dedication to supporting the manufacturing sector, ensuring that it remains a driving force in our community’s economic development. Together, we will continue to blend tradition with innovation, propelling Fayette County and the Greater Lexington Region toward a prosperous 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/.
