GE Appliances, a Haier company, is set to invest $490 million and create 800 full-time jobs at its global headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky. This announcement was made by Governor Andy Beshear, highlighting it as one of the largest private-sector economic development projects since his administration began.
The investment will bring laundry production back to Louisville from China, including the GE Profile Combo Washer/Dryer and the GE Profile UltraFresh Front Load Washer line. "Today’s announcement brings more appliance manufacturing back to the United States and solidifies Kentucky and Louisville as the global headquarters of GE Appliances," said Gov. Beshear.
Production will move to Building 2 at Appliance Park, which will be redesigned with advanced automation technologies. The new product lines are expected to begin production in 2027. Kevin Nolan, president and CEO of GE Appliances, stated that this decision aligns with their strategy to manufacture appliances close to consumers.
Lee Lagomarcino, vice president of Clothes Care at GE Appliances, emphasized the proximity benefits for designers and engineers in creating innovative laundry solutions for American households.
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg expressed enthusiasm about the investment's impact on local job creation. The project builds on previous expansions announced by GE Appliances during Beshear's administration.
Since 2016, GE Appliances has invested over $3.5 billion in U.S. operations. Their recent economic impact analysis reported a $12.8 billion contribution to Kentucky’s GDP last year.
Appliance Park remains a significant operation for GE Appliances with over 6 million square feet dedicated to manufacturing various appliances. The campus also serves as the company's global headquarters and employs more than 8,000 people full-time.
Gov. Beshear has announced nearly 1,200 private-sector projects totaling approximately $36 billion in investments since taking office. These efforts have resulted in substantial job creation and rising wages across Kentucky.
To support this latest initiative, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority approved a supplemental project agreement offering up to $113.5 million in tax incentives based on investment targets.