Editor’s Note: Production of EVs and Chips Comes to Forefront
Despite economic uncertainty, industry investment in both the EV/battery and semiconductor industries continues to grow.
Q2 2023
The auto industry’s push to get to net-zero is illustrated by the number of jobs in the EV and lithium-ion battery sector listed in Area Development’s 18th Annual Shovel report, the results of which are presented in this issue. More than 35 EV/battery projects across 18 states, representing billions of dollars in investment and thousands upon thousands of new jobs, were reported to us as having gotten under way in 2022.
Those vehicles also utilize thousands of semiconductors, as do tech products like cell phones, computers, household appliances, LED bulbs, and more. So, it’s also not surprising that more than a dozen new semiconductor/chips projects are listed among the states participating in our Shovel Awards report — again representing billions of dollars in investment and thousands of new jobs.
Another sector that saw many projects commence in 2022 was life sciences/biotech as the sector works on developing new diagnostic devices as well as treatments including new vaccines and antiviral medications. Two features in this issue explore the challenges facing the life sciences industry from converting office space that’s been vacated by remote workers to life science space, as well as meeting the expectations of employees in this sector.
It remains to be seen if investment in the above mentioned sectors in 2023 will compare with that of 2022 as persistent inflation is met by higher interest rates and tightening monetary policy. However, analysts believe that manufacturers who continue to invest in technology, implement policies to retain top talent, and diversify their supply chains can navigate these challenging times.
Project Announcements
Kimberly-Clark Expands Aiken County, South Carolina, Distribution Operations
05/04/2025
Aerowerks Plans Gaffney, South Carolina, Manufacturing Operations
05/04/2025
Sweden-Based Troax Group Plans Portland, Tennessee, Manufacturing Operations
05/04/2025
Kimberly-Clark Corporation Plans Warren, Ohio, Manufacturing Operations
05/04/2025
Denmark-Based Novonesis Expands Salem, Virginia, Production Operations
05/04/2025
Polyvlies USA Expands Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Manufacturing Operations
05/04/2025
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