GE Appliances has announced a $3 billion investment over the next five years to expand its U.S. manufacturing operations. The initiative marks the company’s second-largest investment in history and aims to modernize 11 domestic plants, enhance production across its product lines, and strengthen its air conditioning and water heating portfolio.
The first phase of the expansion will take place at facilities in Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina. In Kentucky, a $490 million investment will launch combo washer/dryer and front-load washer production, generating 800 new jobs. In Alabama, the Decatur plant will begin insourcing top-freezer refrigerators. The Georgia facility is expanding capacity for gas and induction ranges, wall ovens, and cooktops. Tennessee will see the introduction of new air conditioner models, while the Camden plant in South Carolina will add electric and hybrid water heaters, doubling output and employment by 2026.
Since 2016, GE Appliances has invested $6.5 billion in its U.S. manufacturing and distribution network, supporting more than 4,000 new jobs. With the latest expansion, the company expects to add an additional 1,000 positions. GE Appliances contributes over $30 billion annually to the U.S. GDP and supports more than 113,000 jobs directly and indirectly.
Enhancing Supply Chain Efficiency
Kevin Nolan, CEO of GE Appliances, emphasized that the investment is part of the company’s broader “zero distance” strategy, designed to bring production closer to customers and create a more responsive and efficient supply chain. By localizing manufacturing, GE Appliances aims to reduce lead times, improve operational efficiency, and foster closer collaboration with suppliers.
In June, the company announced plans to shift clothes washer production from China to its Kentucky manufacturing complex, reinforcing its commitment to domestic production and operational streamlining.
Workforce Development and Skills Pipeline
Alongside capital investments, GE Appliances is focused on cultivating a skilled workforce to support its expanded operations. The company works with students starting from high school to promote trade careers and provides apprenticeship programs and partnerships with industry initiatives such as the Manufacturing Institute FAME chapters. These programs aim to strengthen the pipeline of skilled maintenance and manufacturing professionals.
Nolan highlighted the importance of investing in engineers and manufacturing expertise, noting that building a robust workforce is critical to sustaining and expanding domestic operations. GE Appliances’ approach combines hands-on training, technical education, and mentorship to ensure employees are prepared to meet the demands of modern manufacturing.
Strategic Impact
The $3 billion investment will enhance GE Appliances’ competitiveness by modernizing facilities, increasing production capacity, and supporting innovation across product lines. By focusing on workforce development and operational efficiency, the company is positioning itself to meet rising consumer demand and maintain leadership in home appliances.
With its continued investment in U.S. operations, GE Appliances demonstrates a commitment to growth, productivity, and a skilled workforce, ensuring the company remains a significant contributor to the domestic manufacturing sector.
