Economic Development Partnership Of North Carolina

North Carolina's history of leadership in manufacturing started with tobacco, textiles, and furniture. Our commitment to innovation and state-of-the-art research and educational facilities have not only revolutionized traditional industries, but have also transformed North Carolina into a forward-thinking, knowledge-based economy with the largest advanced manufacturing workforce in the southeastern United States. North Carolina is home to over 230 unique automotive companies, including heavy-duty truck, body & trailer, engine & transmission, seating & interior trim, and brake system manufacturing.

When it comes to furniture manufacturing, North Carolina stands second to none. Our state is home to High Point Market, the largest furnishings industry trade show in the world; Furnitureland South, the largest furniture store in the world; and major manufacturers like Ashley Furniture, the largest furniture manufacturer in the world. North Carolina's robust furniture industry value-chain is comprised of 3,000 establishments and more than 36,000 employees statewide. The state's concentration of furniture manufacturing activity is more than three times the national average.