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.
Project Announcements
Lactalis USA Upgrades Walton-Buffalo, New York, Production Operations
07/18/2025
Brawo USA Forges Expands Laurens County, South Carolina, Operations
07/18/2025
Rolls-Royce Solutions America Expands Graniteville, South Carolina, Assembly Operations
07/18/2025
Aerial Machine & Tool Corporation Expands Patrick County, Virginia, Operations
07/18/2025
Meridian Biotech Plans Franklin County, Kentucky, Aquaculture Product Operations
07/18/2025
Module Design Expands Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Operations
07/14/2025
Most Read
-
20th Annual Area Development Gold and Silver Shovel Awards
Q2 2025
-
In Focus: AI Is Changing Incentives Math
Q2 2025
-
How to Choose the Right Site for Your Factory in 2025’s Volatile Landscape
Q2 2025
-
From Silicon to Server: Mapping the Data Center Supply Chain
Q2 2025
-
Rethinking Life Sciences Site Selection in a Resilient and Dynamic Market
Q2 2025
-
First Person: David Robey, Co-CEO of QTS Data Centers
Q2 2025
-
Manufacturing’s New Risk Game for Site Selection
Q2 2025