Earlier this month, Greater Louisville Inc. hosted its annual Familiarization “FAM” Tour, presented by LG&E KU Energy, welcoming nine national site selectors from a range of industries to experience the region firsthand. Over the course of two days, these site selectors had the chance to explore Louisville’s regional assets, meet with key strategic partners from the Greater Louisville Partnership, and gain valuable insights into what makes this area an attractive place for business.
The tour culminated in the “Looking at Lou” event. The format of the event was a panel discussion where the site selectors shared their perspectives with members of the local business community. This discussion offered attendees the unique opportunity to hear directly from these decision-makers about how Louisville is perceived, the region’s strengths, and potential areas for improvement to better position the region for business attraction and expansion.
Among the participants was Eric Kleinsorge, Chairman and CEO of Global Site Location Industries (GSLI) from Dallas, Texas. Since founding GSLI in 1994, Kleinsorge and his team have facilitated relocations for over 2,500 companies.
“When considering a new location for your company, there are three main considerations for selecting the right site, workforce, logistics infrastructure, and quality of life. The Greater Louisville region checks all three boxes and receives high marks on each,” said Kleinsorge. “They should not be considered just a good option, but a serious contender if your company is seeking long-term and sustainable success.”
Kleinsorge elaborated further on these three main considerations and provided takeaways in three categories:
Workforce
- Greater Louisville boasts access to two major Research One (R1) universities, providing a strong pipeline of highly educated talent.
- The region offers excellent school systems with a focus on diversity, particularly in programs aimed at developing K through 12 students into skilled workers.
- Workforce development programs are robust and well thought out. There is equal support and collaboration between educational institutions and local industries.
Logistics
- Greater Louisville’s central location continues to be a significant advantage, providing efficient access to major transportation networks.
- The region has a well-developed infrastructure, which supports smooth operations for companies relying on logistics and distribution.
Quality of Life
- Greater Louisville’s quality of life is enhanced by its mix of food, entertainment, and cultural activities. The region offers a vibrant environment that appeals to both residents and visitors.
- Greater Louisville’s water quality is among the best in the nation, which not only contributes to residents’ well-being but is also a point of pride for the community.
- The region’s clean, safe neighborhoods and diverse communities make it an attractive place for families and young professionals.
Other takeaways provided by site selectors during the Looking at Lou event can be found in a Lane Report article here and a Louisville Business First article here.