As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on Rowan County’s incredible economic development achievements from 2024. We’re proud to highlight these standout moments and energized to build on this momentum, driving toward an even brighter future together.
10. Rowan EDC Launches Forward Rowan 2 Campaign to Further Drive Economic Growth
The Rowan EDC launched the Forward Rowan 2 campaign to advance its mission to increase prosperity, reduce poverty, and improve quality of life in the county. With a goal of raising $1.5 million from the private sector, the campaign supports initiatives to create 3,000 new jobs paying above the county’s average wage, generate 2,000 indirect jobs, boost annual consumer spending by $141 million, and secure $500 million in capital investment from new or existing industry expansions.
“The success of Forward Rowan 2 will depend on the continued support of our community and partners,” said Steve Fisher, F&M Bank President and campaign co-chair. “Every contribution to this campaign is an investment in Rowan County’s future, ensuring we remain a competitive and thriving region for businesses, families, and workers alike.” Learn More
9. Rowan EDC’s Concierge Relocation Service Drives Talent Attraction Success
The Rowan EDC’s Concierge Relocation Service, a cornerstone of the ‘Choose Rowan’ talent attraction campaign, achieved significant success in 2024, assisting employers like Hexagon Agility, Innospec, and Rowan County Government in recruiting top talent. Designed to support both businesses and individuals considering a move to Rowan County, the complimentary service connected with talent prospects from states such as Utah, California, Florida, Missouri, and Virginia.
The campaign’s website, RowanOriginal.com, experienced a remarkable 313.4% increase in traffic, garnering 35,222 views, and helping many candidates secure positions with local employers. As the Rowan EDC continues this impactful service into 2025, it remains committed to attracting and integrating skilled talent into the community.
8. Rowan EDC Celebrates Achievements at 4th Annual Meeting
The Rowan EDC hosted its 4th Annual Meeting at the F&M Trolley Barn, celebrating a year of remarkable economic development and partnerships that continue to shape Rowan County’s future. The event highlighted milestones such as the creation of 2,529 jobs, $986 million in capital investments, and nearly 19 million square feet of speculative building development along the I-85 corridor.
It also honored local leaders like Craig Lamb, recipient of the Rock Star of the Year award, for his transformative impact on workforce development. Attendees gained valuable insights from keynote speaker Jeannette Goldsmith, Vice President of Strategic Development Group based in Greenville, South Carolina, who praised Rowan’s strategic location, workforce initiatives, and collaborative community. Stay tuned for details and tickets to the 2025 annual meeting, promising another exciting look at Rowan’s progress and future. Learn More
7. Rowan County Celebrates Manufacturing Month with Inspiring Women in Manufacturing Panel
Rowan County’s Manufacturing Month highlighted its thriving manufacturing sector with events like the first annual Women in Manufacturing Panel at Hexagon Agility, where Kris Baum from Gränges Americas, Teresa Stephens from Chroma Color, and Brittany Dorn from Hexagon Agility shared insights to inspire the next generation.
“The Women in Manufacturing Panel was a milestone event, highlighting the vital role women play in shaping our manufacturing sector,” said Kendall Henderson, Director of Business Services at Rowan EDC. The month also featured Manufacturing Day tours for Rowan-Salisbury Schools students at over a dozen local facilities, an open house at Salisbury High School’s Advanced Manufacturing Academy, and a Manufacturers Appreciation Luncheon, connecting students, educators, and employers to showcase the dynamic career opportunities available in Rowan County. Learn More
6. Construction Complete at General RV’s First NC Facility
Construction of General RV’s 71,000-square-foot facility in Salisbury concluded in fall 2024, with the dealership opening for business soon after. The $25 million investment features over 30 service bays, including a six-bay body shop, and space to house 700 RVs on-site. General RV began hiring in summer 2024, bringing more than 150 full-time jobs to Rowan County with an average salary of $65,000.
“As we step into 2025, we are excited to see how the season unfolds, especially as we engage with new customers, welcome new teammates, and build even stronger connections with the community,” said Matt McKinstry, Operations Manager at the Salisbury Supercenter. “The opportunities for growth and collaboration are endless, and we can’t wait to experience it all.”
A grand opening celebration is planned for 2025, marking a milestone for the dealership and the local community.
5. Macy’s Leadership in Place as Record-Breaking Distribution Center Nears Completion
In 2024, Macy’s, Inc. named Alisa Stone as Senior Director Facility Leader for its record-breaking distribution center in China Grove. This transformative project, involving a $640.6 million investment, is nearing construction completion and will create 1,317 full-time jobs, changing the trajectory of the community.
The Rowan EDC has shared that hiring for the facility will begin this spring, with operations anticipated to go live by mid-2025. Under Stone’s leadership, this 2.1 million-square-foot facility is poised to become a cornerstone of economic growth and innovation for China Grove and the region.
4. Enhanced Work in Rowan Job Portal Connects Talent with Opportunity
The Rowan EDC has launched the enhanced Work in Rowan job portal, powered by Getro, to connect job seekers with opportunities across Rowan County. The platform offers personalized job recommendations, up-to-date postings, and tools for candidates to join a talent network that matches their skills with employer needs, while employers can efficiently manage profiles and access resumes.
“With nearly 100 Rowan County companies represented on the portal, it’s incredible to see the opportunities available for job seekers,” said Mollie Ruf, Marketing & Communications Manager at Rowan EDC. Learn More
3. Rowan EDC Concludes First Forward Rowan Campaign with Outstanding Results
The Rowan EDC concluded its inaugural Forward Rowan campaign in 2024, surpassing its goals and delivering transformative results for the community. Over the course of the campaign, Rowan County attracted nearly $1 billion in capital investment and created over 2,500 new jobs with wages exceeding $25 per hour. Half of the projects originated from expansions of existing businesses. The campaign also brought in high-profile companies such as Macy’s and Chick-fil-A Supply, solidifying Rowan’s position as a key player in the Charlotte region’s economic growth.
Reflecting on the campaign’s impact, Rod Crider, President of Rowan EDC, remarked, “The Forward Rowan campaign has been a game-changer for our community. Not only have we created more high-paying jobs, but we’ve also strengthened our local economy, providing opportunities for families to thrive and elevating the quality of life for our citizens. This success is a testament to the power of collaboration and the resilience of Rowan County.”
2. Ever Home Plastics LLC Locates First U.S. Manufacturing Facility in Rowan County
The Rowan EDC announced that Ever Home Plastics LLC, a subsidiary of Vacane Home Concepts Inc., will establish its first U.S. production facility in Rowan County at the Mid-South Industrial Park. With a $3.65 million investment and plans to create 46 jobs over the next four years, the facility will focus on manufacturing plastic injection molds for home organization products supplied to major retailers, including Walmart, Target, and The Container Store.
The announcement highlighted Rowan County’s ability to attract diverse industries through strategic location and turnkey facilities. This milestone also emphasized the strength of local partnerships, including workforce training support from Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, further showcasing Rowan County as a hub for business growth and innovation. Learn More
1. Rowan EDC Announces Amrep’s Major Expansion
The Rowan EDC announced the significant expansion of Amrep®, a subsidiary of Wastequip®, demonstrating Rowan County’s ability to support long-term business success. Known as Project Hoist, the $21 million investment included an 80,000-square-foot industrial facility in the Summit Corporate Center and $4 million in state-of-the-art equipment. This expansion will create 170 full-time jobs with an average annual wage of $57,490, bolstering the local economy.
Amrep, which first established operations in Rowan County in 2017, chose to grow here due to the area’s skilled workforce and strong community support. The announcement underscored Rowan County’s role in fostering the growth and longevity of its businesses. Learn More
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