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
Bell & Evans Bethel Township, Pennsylvania, Operations
10/06/2026
Caterpillar Expands Sanford, North Carolina, Manufacturing Operations
10/03/2026
Bayer Plans New Albany, Ohio, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Operations
10/03/2026
Janus Organization Plans Greenwood, Mississippi, Operations
10/03/2026
Simpson Strong-Tie Consolidates-Expands Fulton, Missouri, Operations
10/03/2026
Adeptus USA Plans Honea Path, South Carolina, Manufacturing Operations
10/02/2026
Mayville Engineering Company Plans McDuffie County, Georgia, Fabrication Operations
10/02/2026
Speed Kentucky Plans Owsley County, Kentucky, Operations
10/02/2026
South Korea-Based Sebang Lithium Battery Plans Jeffersonville, Ohio, Manufacturing Operations
09/30/2026
Walmart Plans Turtlecreek Township, Ohio, Fulfillment Operations
09/30/2026
Ultium Cells Expands Spring Hill, Tennessee, Production Operations
09/30/2026
Mesabi Metallics Plans Iowa Steel Production Operations
09/30/2026
King Technology Establishes St Peters, Missouri, Operations
09/30/2026
Prism Controls Expands Vergennes Township, Michigan, Production Operations
09/30/2026
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