Chattanooga Leather Works, a company specializing in leatherwork, is making a significant impact on the local economy in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The company, founded by Ben Beasley, initially started by creating a leather sheath for a uniquely shaped knife. Since then, they have expanded their product line to include wallets, knife covers, bags, and backpacks. While their work is primarily focused on the knife industry, they have also begun creating standalone items that appeal to a wider audience. Chattanooga Leather Works takes pride in keeping their products made in the USA and supporting other companies that share the same commitment. In addition to contributing to the local economy, the company also provides valuable learning opportunities for its employees. [bea2b426]
Several veterans in Tennessee have found success as business owners after their military service. One such veteran is Tim Presley, a former Army Reserves serviceman, who now owns Workout Anytime locations in Gallatin and Hendersonville. Despite facing challenges, Presley took the risk and opened his businesses, which have proven to be successful. He believes that taking chances is necessary for success [937cc4ac].
US Pillars LLC, a manufacturer of display shelving, tables, cabinets, and more, has announced plans to expand its manufacturing operations at its headquarters in Cookeville, Tennessee. The company will invest $981,000 in acquiring a wood door product line from Hörmann, a German manufacturer. This expansion will not only strengthen US Pillars' manufacturing capabilities but also create 56 new jobs in the region. The partnership with Hörmann will further enhance the business prospects of US Pillars, which was founded in 2015. The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development has been actively supporting economic development projects in the Upper Cumberland region, resulting in significant job commitments and capital investment [959a067e].
Simpson Strong-Tie, a leading manufacturer of construction solutions, will invest $110 million to expand its manufacturing operations in Gallatin, Tennessee. The new facility will help meet growing product demand and create nearly 250 jobs. The expansion is part of the company's commitment to job creation in the state and will strengthen Tennessee's economy. The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development has supported numerous economic development projects in Sumner County, resulting in job commitments and capital investment. Simpson Strong-Tie's decision to expand in Gallatin is seen as a testament to the region's workforce and economic strength. The Tennessee Valley Authority and Gallatin Department of Electricity also congratulate the company on its expansion. Local officials and community members are pleased with the investment and the new jobs it will bring to Sumner County [9c87d239].
Summit Behavioral Healthcare, a company specializing in behavioral and mental health centers, will invest $4.5 million to expand its headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee. The expansion will create 125 new jobs and bring the total number of employees to over 450. The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development has supported over 20 economic development projects in Williamson County, resulting in thousands of job commitments and millions of dollars in capital investment. Governor Lee and Commissioner McWhorter expressed gratitude for Summit BHC's investment in Tennessee and its contribution to the local economy. TVA and Middle Tennessee Electric also congratulated Summit BHC on its expansion. The company is dedicated to providing behavioral healthcare and substance use disorder treatment across the United States. [a6f3a58b].
Precision Products Inc., a woman-owned manufacturing company in Dalton, Georgia, hosted U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Rome for a tour of its ultramodern facilities. The visit aimed to highlight the critical role of women-owned small businesses in national security and underscore the contributions of small businesses to the armed forces. During the visit, Precision Products showcased a new Mazak 5-Axis CNC milling machine that was recently added to bolster production capacity for the U.S. Department of Defense Missile Defense Agency. Precision Products is registered by the U.S. Department of State for the production of defense articles and has been an active supplier to numerous defense and space programs since 2017. The company plans to continue expanding to support the U.S. warfighter and add new technologies such as 3-D printing and additive manufacturing [55f9e4b1].
Kris-Tech Wire, founded by Gerry and Glenn Brodock in 1984, is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a major expansion at its Griffiss Technology Park facility in Rome. The expansion, set to double the company's footprint by spring 2024, reflects Kris-Tech's commitment to growth, innovation, and community well-being. With over 140 employees, Kris-Tech Wire has become a national leader in the copper wire industry. The company's expansion not only promises to enhance its product offerings and operational efficiencies but also demonstrates confidence in the region's economic future. Kris-Tech Wire has deep roots in Rome and actively participates in local events and initiatives. The upcoming 40th-anniversary celebration will include the launch of new initiatives and the creation of more jobs. Kris-Tech Wire's focus remains on innovation, expansion, and community engagement, positioning the company as a model for responsible business growth and community upliftment [72c836c7].
Heartland Promotional Products, a small business in Knox County, Ohio, is celebrating its 15th anniversary. The company, established in 2009 at the end of the Great Recession, focuses on gaining name recognition for its customers by putting their names on various promotional items. Owner Jon Jones and his team celebrated with a customer appreciation luncheon on May 9, 2024. Heartland Promotional Products does not manufacture products but connects with suppliers through independent manufacturer representatives. The company faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic but was able to pivot and provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to meet the demand. Looking to the future, Jones is optimistic and plans to expand the business further. According to the 2021 Census, Knox County has 1,089 businesses employing fewer than 500 workers. [7f7df5a6]
U.S. Sen. Bill Hagerty visited the Industrial Park in Clarksville as part of a statewide economic development tour. He talked with managers at LG’s Clarksville plant and the owners of Old Glory Distillery and toured both facilities. Hagerty discussed business policy, mentioning that pandemic-era spending bills and regulations were contributing to inflation. He emphasized the impact of the administration's regulatory war on American energy and the negative effects of spending bills like the Green New Deal. Hagerty also highlighted the costs of regulations on industries like banking and the alignment of employee interests with economic results. The visit is part of Hagerty’s fourth annual economic development tour of Tennessee. [ee985f61]