The State of Georgia has once again proven itself as a powerhouse for business, breaking records and setting new benchmarks in economic growth. For the 12th consecutive year, Area Development Magazine has recognized Georgia as the number one state for business, a testament to its robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and business-friendly environment. This accolade comes as no surprise, given the state’s recent surge in facility expansions and new construction across critical sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare logistics, and AI-powered customer relationship management.
In the last quarter alone, six companies announced major expansions totaling $122.9 million. Over the past year, Georgia has seen 423 facility expansions and new locations, representing a staggering $26.3 billion in investment—a new record. This building boom is not just about numbers; it’s about transforming communities and creating opportunities.
Underwood Ammo, a leading manufacturer of handgun and rifle ammunition, is investing $41 million to build a new facility in Savannah Portside International Park. This project, set to create 120 new jobs, marks a significant milestone for the company. “This project is a major step forward for Underwood Ammo,” said Kevin Underwood, company president and founder. Construction is slated to begin in 2026, with operations starting in 2027.
Virginia Transformer Corp., a manufacturer of custom-designed power transformers, is investing $40 million to expand its facility near Rincon in Effingham County. This expansion will generate 400 new jobs and produce transformers ranging from 30 MegaVolt-Amperes (MVA) to 500 MVA at up to 525 kilovolts. “Our additional investment will further underscore our position as a leader in the industry,” said Prabhat Jain, CEO of Virginia Transformer Corp. Construction is expected to begin in January.
Salesforce, a global leader in customer relationship management, is investing $15 million to expand its Georgia footprint in Fulton County. This expansion will create more than 250 new jobs by the end of 2028. “Atlanta has always been a cornerstone of our growth story,” said Tanya Counter, site lead for Salesforce Atlanta. The company already supports over 2,000 jobs across Georgia, highlighting its commitment to the state.
In Columbus, BioTech, a healthcare logistics company, is investing $12.5 million to expand two existing facilities, creating 480 new jobs in Muscogee County over the next four years. “This expansion is a pivotal chapter in our growth story,” said Rob Coyle, CEO of BioTouch. Construction has already begun, with full operations expected by 2028.
Socomec Group, an electrical component and system manufacturer, will start construction of a new $10-million facility near Suwanee in early 2026. This expansion will create around 300 new jobs. “The state’s strong talent pool, infrastructure, and business environment make it the ideal location to accelerate innovation and support the energy transition,” said Michele Putignano, president and CEO of Socomec North America.
Grupo Vialume, a manufacturer of advanced visibility solutions for transportation safety, is investing $4.4 million to expand its U.S. manufacturing operations in Colquitt-Miller County. This project will create 150 new jobs over approximately seven years. “The growing demand for sustainable products, combined with attractive tax incentives, makes Colquitt the ideal environment for our expansion,” said João Paulo Moura, company CEO.
These expansions are not just about economic growth; they are about shaping the future of Georgia. They represent a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community development. As these companies invest in Georgia, they are also investing in the people and the future of the state.
The construction industry plays a pivotal role in this transformation. From manufacturing facilities to healthcare logistics centers, the demand for skilled labor and innovative construction practices is on the rise. This surge in construction activity presents an opportunity for the industry to embrace sustainable practices and cutting-edge technologies.
As Georgia continues to break records and set new benchmarks, the construction industry must rise to the challenge. By leveraging advanced technologies, adopting sustainable practices, and fostering a skilled workforce, the industry can support the state’s economic growth while contributing to a more sustainable future.
In the words of Michael Schumacher, “I always thought records were there to be broken.” Georgia has embraced this philosophy, setting new standards for business and economic growth. The construction industry, in turn, must continue to innovate and adapt, ensuring that the state’s growth is not only rapid but also sustainable and inclusive.