News
‘Selma’ could be break for Alabama film industry
MONTGOMERY, Alabama – The director of Alabama’s Film Office hopes the state’s growing film industry will receive a boost from the critically acclaimed “Selma,” which was partially shot in Alabama last year. “Selma,” which depicts pivotal moments in the 1960’s Civil Rights movement led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., opened nationwide last week, earning…
Polaris plans Alabama manufacturing facility with up to 2,000 jobs
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama – Polaris Industries Inc. announced today that it plans to build a manufacturing facility in Alabama that focuses on the production of off-road vehicles, creating between 1,700 and 2,000 jobs. Polaris said Huntsville was an ideal pick for its 600,000-square-foot facility because of the city’s skilled workforce, a history of technology and innovation,…
Alabama November job growth hits highest mark in 8 years
MONTGOMERY, Alabama – Alabama’s unemployment rate dropped to 6 percent in November, its lowest point since 2008, as job growth in sectors such as manufacturing and construction continues at a strong pace. “Alabama’s unemployment rate has not only continued its downward trend, but has reached a level we have not seen in more than six…
Made In Alabama’s 2014 Holiday Gift Guide
The holiday season is a perfect time to tap into the creativity and innovation of Alabama’s craftsmen and entrepreneurs. With that in mind, Made in Alabama is rolling out its second Holiday Gift Guide showcasing original homegrown products that are ideal for sharing with friends or family members this holiday season. Last year’s list featured…
Made-in-Alabama gift: Pens crafted from Bourbon barrels
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — The handcrafted ink pens Joel Lockridge fashions in a small woodworking shop at his Birmingham area home are fueling a mini export boom from Alabama to parts all over the world. “I’ve now shipped to 27 countries and counting — some I’ve even had to Google to figure out exactly where I was shipping,” Lockridge said.…
FreightCar America adding 150-200 jobs in $10 million Alabama expansion
CHEROKEE, Alabama — Chicago-based FreightCar America Inc. announced plans today to expand railcar production in Alabama as part of a $10 million project that will create 150 to 200 jobs in Colbert County. FreightCar America said it plans to launch an additional production line at the operation in Cherokee, allowing it to meet growing demand for its new types…
Chairman: Airbus Alabama production center expands U.S. presence
MOBILE, Alabama — With customer deliveries of Alabama-made Airbus A320 Family aircraft set to begin in 2016, the European manufacturer is counting on its new production facility at Mobile Aeroplex to expand its presence in the world’s largest aviation market, according to Airbus Group Chairman Allan McArtor. “We want to be here permanently and understood to…
Business Alabama publishes 2015 Alabama Economic Development Guide
Business Alabama has published its 2015 Alabama Economic Development Guide, a comprehensive examination of the state’s economic climate, its key industry sectors and resources, as well as the advantages it offers for investment. The 2015 Alabama Economic Development Guide features in-depth articles focusing on the state’s geographical regions, its emerging industries, its expanding advanced manufacturing…
4 Alabama metros rank in Top 100 of ‘America’s Smartest Cities’
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — Four Alabama metropolitan areas ranked among the nation’s 100 “Smartest Cities” in an analysis that examines which metro areas are gaining brainpower in the 21st Century. To compile its list, researcher NewGeography scored the nation’s 380 Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) based on three criteria related to gains in educational attainment since 2000.…
Sylacauga Marble Quarry venture plans rebirth for Alabama white marble
SYLACAUGA, Alabama – The belt of white marble that runs beneath this central Alabama city once yielded gleaming columns, panels and other architectural elements found in monuments, government buildings, hotels and banks across the nation. For several decades, however, creamy Alabama marble has been in short supply for high-profile commercial and government projects. A new…