35th Annual Survey of Corporate Executives Commentary: Skilled Labor, Taxes & Incentives Still Paramount in the Location Decision
Companies recognize the importance of a location’s quality of life in in attracting the skilled labor that they need, and taxes and incentives continue to be a top criteria as well.
Q1 2021
For these decision-makers, the local availability of skilled labor continues to be at the top of the list of decision criteria, as it has been historically. Quality-of-life trends continue to be an important factor in site location decisions, and it’s no surprise given the importance of quality of life considerations in attracting skilled labor. In fact, quality of life this year ranks higher in the survey when compared to universally important factors as labor, occupancy and construction cost. This trend is likely to continue as many employers attempt to reimagine their workplaces and cater to a more mobile workforce.
Finally, state and local taxes and incentives continue to be top 10 criteria for decision-makers. While recent declines in state and local tax revenue collections resulting from the global pandemic have impacted many public-sector budgets, economic development authorities continue to seek meaningful engagement with the business community and offer financial support. I expect these collaborations to take precedence going forward.
Recent Project Announcements

Sartori Company Expands Plymouth, Wisconsin, Production Operations
11/02/2026
Tronix3D Expands Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Manufacturing Operations
11/02/2026
South Korea-Based Hwasung Group Plans Florence, South Carolina, Manufacturing Operations
11/02/2026
Japan-Based Nissin International Transport Plans Franklin County, Kentucky, Distribution Operations
11/01/2026
Dominion Packaging Expands Henrico, Virginia, Operations
11/01/2026
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Plans Allentown, Pennsylvania, Distribution Operations
10/31/2026
Superior Huntingdon Composites Expands Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, Fiberglass Production Operations
10/31/2026
Helix Electric Plans Hollywood, Alabama, Manufacturing Operations
10/31/2026
Amick Farms Plans Edgefield County, South Carolina, Operations
10/31/2026
Gradian Thermal Solutions Establishes Dayton, Minnesota, Manufacturing Operations
10/30/2026
AMEND Consulting Expands Cincinnati, Ohio, Operations
10/30/2026
Canfor Southern Pine Expands El Dorado Arkansas, Operations
10/30/2026
Italy-Based Bracco Plans Sanford, North Carolina, Manufacturing Operations
10/30/2026
Nash Technologies Expands Charleston, South Carolina, Operations
10/30/2026
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