On 14/8, the Louisville, Kentucky-based appliance manufacturer announced a major investment plan. This includes expanding its air conditioner and water heater portfolio, increasing capacity, and adding automation and advanced equipment to 11 factories and smaller production facilities across the US.

The investment is projected to create over 1,000 new jobs. The first phase will be rolled out at GE facilities in Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina.

Production line at GE Appliances on 13/8 in Louisville, Kentucky. Photo: Getty Images

Production line at GE Appliances on 13/8 in Louisville, Kentucky. Photo: Getty Images

"What we have done and are doing is not just a business strategy, it's essential for the US economy and manufacturing sector," Kevin Nolan, President and CEO of GE Appliances, said at the company's global headquarters in Louisville.

GE Appliances, now owned by Haier Smart Home (China), has invested USD 3.5 billion in its US operations since 2016, focusing on bringing production back from Mexico and China.

In June, the company completed a USD 180 million expansion project at its Roper Corp. plant in LaFayette, Georgia, which specializes in cooking ranges. The project added over 600 jobs and incorporated automation technology, such as robotic arms, increasing the production capacity of gas, electric, and induction ranges, replacing some products previously made in Mexico.

Also in June, GE Appliances announced a USD 490 million investment at its Appliance Park complex in Louisville, its largest manufacturing facility with 5 factories. This investment will focus on improving the front-load washing machine line, bringing GE Profile and UltraFresh products, currently made in China, back to the US.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said Louisville will become the research, product design, and testing center for GE Appliances. This is part of the "zero-distance" strategy – bringing products closer to consumers.

GE will also expand production of electric water heaters and Geospring hybrid heat pumps at its Camden, South Carolina plant, which is expected to double capacity and jobs when completed in early 2026. In Tennessee, the company will add two new Zoneline air conditioner models; while the plant in Decatur, Alabama, will increase production of 22-cubic-foot refrigerators to meet market demand this month.

GE Appliances is also investing heavily in workforce development. The company has restarted its apprenticeship program, implemented a work-study model for high school graduates, and is providing up to USD 6,000 per year in tuition assistance for employees pursuing further education.

"We need more of these manufacturing training and development programs. This USD 3 billion commitment not only strengthens our operations in Kentucky, but also strengthens our entire US manufacturing network," Nolan stated.

The Dan (according to Supply Chain Dive)