By Mark Stevens
Southwest Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, swaying palm trees and picturesque sunsets. Manufacturing certainly isn’t the first thought that locals or visitors have when describing the region, but the perception that Lee County is all play and no work is changing.
From life-saving medical devices to aircraft parts, manufacturers from all sectors have dropped their roots in Lee County. Companies such as Advanced Hurricane Technology, Aerox, Arthrex, Custom Packaging & Products, Drake Ready Mix, HF Scientific, MY Shower Door, Nor-Tec, Storm Smart, Sutumed, Tyber Medical and more are all here in Lee County.
From 2017-22, Lee County saw a 33% growth in manufacturing employment. The manufacturing industry contributes $1.18 billion in annual revenue to Lee County’s economy, according to the Lee County Economic Development Office. So why the rapid growth?
John Talmage, director of the Lee County Economic Development Office, says several key factors come into play. “Our region boasts a strategic geographic location for the effectiveness of logistics and supply chain management. We are able to provide manufacturers with access to global markets through the help of Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and a Foreign Trade Zone at Skyplex. This availability to the global market allows our manufacturing industry to expand its technology and operational efficiencies to create new, cutting-edge products.”
Talmage adds, “Our area also offers a favorable business environment characterized by a highly skilled workforce. With programs at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) and Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) that specialize in trades and manufacturing, we have a properly trained workforce that is able to fill these high-demand job vacancies.”
Florida’s favorable tax policies and incentives, such as grants and job training programs, reduce operational costs and encourage business investment. Local governments’ streamlined regulatory processes and proactive economic development efforts create an inviting environment for manufacturers.
Southwest Florida’s high quality of life, abundant sunshine, sandy beaches and ample recreational activities attract skilled professionals and their families from across the nation. Additionally, the region’s focus on innovation and technology, supported by industry associations and economic development organizations, fosters a supportive ecosystem for manufacturers.
Combining the region’s commitment to innovation with strong support from local organizations, such as the Horizon Foundation, further enhances its appeal to manufacturers and investors leading to the emergence of Southwest Florida as a major manufacturing hub.
