5 States Will Add Jobs as GE Appliances Shifts Production to U.S.
In a major boost to U.S. manufacturing, GE Appliances, a subsidiary of China-based Haier, has announced a $3 billion investment to expand its domestic production capabilities. This significant move, the second-largest in the company’s history, will shift production of certain refrigerator models and gas ranges from China and Mexico to five Southern states: Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina.
The investment, part of a broader strategy to reshore manufacturing, is expected to create over 1,000 new jobs across these states. It also underscores a growing trend of companies bringing production back to the U.S., driven by favorable policies and economic incentives.
GE Appliances plans to modernize its operations through automation and upskilling its workforce. The company’s CEO, Kevin Nolan, emphasized that manufacturing closer to customers has become economically viable due to advancements in technology and workforce development.
The shift includes moving gas range production from Mexico to a plant in Georgia and relocating six refrigerator models from China to a facility in Alabama. Additionally, production of clothes washers will be transferred from China to the company’s main complex in Louisville, Kentucky, creating 800 jobs and expanding its capabilities as the largest U.S. manufacturer of washing machines.
This initiative aligns with recent U.S. policies aimed at encouraging domestic manufacturing, including increased import tariffs on foreign goods. By 2027, new manufacturing lines in Kentucky are expected to open, further solidifying GE Appliances’ commitment to U.S. production.
GE Appliances has already invested significantly in its U.S. operations, with a total of $6.5 billion allocated since 2016. The company contributes over $30 billion annually to the U.S. economy and supports more than 113,000 jobs directly and indirectly through its operations and supply chain.
The first phase of this five-year plan is set to begin by the end of August 2025, with plans to expand product lines, including air conditioning and water heating systems. This strategic shift not only strengthens GE Appliances’ manufacturing footprint but also highlights the potential for advanced technology and workforce development to revitalize U.S. manufacturing.
Expanding Manufacturing Capabilities and Economic Impact
GE Appliances’ $3 billion investment is part of a broader strategy to not only reshore manufacturing but also to expand its product offerings. The company plans to grow its air conditioning and water heating product lines, further diversifying its U.S.-made appliances. This expansion will enable GE Appliances to meet growing consumer demand for energy-efficient and innovative home solutions.
The economic impact of this investment extends beyond job creation. GE Appliances currently contributes over $30 billion annually to the U.S. economy, supporting more than 113,000 jobs directly and indirectly. This includes roles in manufacturing, supply chain management, and distribution. The additional investment is expected to amplify this impact, particularly in the Southern states where the new manufacturing facilities will be located.
Since 2016, GE Appliances has invested a total of $6.5 billion in its U.S. operations, solidifying its position as a leader in domestic manufacturing within the appliance sector. This long-term commitment reflects the company’s confidence in the viability of U.S. manufacturing, driven by advancements in technology and a skilled workforce.
The company’s strategy also aligns with the broader U.S. policy environment, which has increasingly encouraged reshoring through measures such as import tariffs and incentives for domestic production. GE Appliances’ CEO, Kevin Nolan, highlighted that lean processes, automation, and workforce upskilling have made manufacturing in the U.S. economically sustainable for the company.
The first phase of this five-year plan is set to begin by the end of August 2025, with new manufacturing lines in Kentucky scheduled to open in 2027. This rapid ramp-up underscores GE Appliances’ commitment to accelerating its domestic manufacturing capabilities and reinforcing its position as a key player in the U.S. economy.
Conclusion
GE Appliances’ $3 billion investment to shift production to the U.S. represents a significant milestone in the reshoring of American manufacturing. By expanding operations in Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina, the company is creating over 1,000 new jobs and further solidifying its commitment to domestic production. This move aligns with broader U.S. policies encouraging manufacturing growth and underscores the viability of advanced technology and workforce development in revitalizing the industry. As GE Appliances continues to expand its product lines and modernize its facilities, this initiative promises to have a lasting positive impact on the U.S. economy and manufacturing landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which states will benefit from GE Appliances’ production shift?
The five states benefiting from GE Appliances’ production shift are Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina.
How many jobs will be created by this investment?
GE Appliances’ $3 billion investment is expected to create over 1,000 new jobs across the five states.
Why is GE Appliances shifting production to the U.S.?
The company is reshoring manufacturing due to favorable U.S. policies, economic incentives, and advancements in technology and workforce development that make domestic production economically viable.
What is the economic impact of GE Appliances’ investment?
GE Appliances contributes over $30 billion annually to the U.S. economy and supports more than 113,000 jobs directly and indirectly. This investment is expected to amplify that impact, particularly in the Southern states.
What is the timeline for GE Appliances’ expansion plans?
The first phase of the five-year plan is set to begin by the end of August 2025, with new manufacturing lines in Kentucky expected to open by 2027.