News
Alabama trade mission team forges bonds in Tanzania
An Alabama trade mission to Africa culminated with an extended stop in Tanzania, where meetings with high-level government representatives showcased the potential for strategic collaboration and the promise of new markets. This month’s Commerce-led trade and business development mission focused on commercial opportunities through the Sub-Saharan region of Africa – that is, the area south…
Erwin brothers’ movie ‘Woodlawn’ recreates 1970s story of faith, football
As young filmmakers, Jon and Andy Erwin dreamed of moving to Los Angles to start a career in movies, but with the success of their first feature film, “October Baby,” filmed mainly in Mobile, the Birmingham-based brothers realized they did not have to move west. They could successfully film movies right here in Alabama. “We…
Alabama trade mission to Africa opens doors for opportunity
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — An Alabama trade and business development mission to Africa is wrapping up after introducing business executives and international trade specialists to opportunities in a region that’s growing rapidly if unevenly. The Alabama delegation, headed by Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield, kicked off the mission in Johannesburg, South Africa, where it participated…
Mercedes to invest $1.3 billion in Alabama plant for next-gen SUVs
Mercedes-Benz plans to invest nearly $1.3 billion in a major expansion at its Alabama assembly plant, creating 300 jobs and preparing the factory to launch production of its next-generation sport utility vehicles, including hybrids. The new investment comes at a time of dramatic growth for Mercedes’ manufacturing hub in Tuscaloosa County. Output at the 3.7 million-square-foot plant is targeted at 300,000…
Toyota Alabama produces milestone 4 millionth engine
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama – Workers at the Toyota Alabama plant recorded a production milestone Monday – the 4 millionth engine assembled at the Huntsville facility. “It was an exciting day,” said Jim Bolte, president of Toyota Alabama. “This is a testament to our team members – they are dedicated to building high-quality engines. And, whether it…
Airbus Alabama production launch to boost aerospace sector
MOBILE, Alabama – Airbus leaders and Alabama officials gathered at Mobile Aeroplex today to celebrate the official opening of the aviation giant’s most advanced manufacturing facility – a development that will push the state’s aerospace sector to new altitudes. “Today shows that Airbus is truly becoming a global manufacturer and a truly American manufacturer,” said…
How Airbus A320 aircraft assembly will roll in Alabama (video)
Curious about how Airbus’ Alabama workforce will assemble those A320 Family passenger jets in the company’s new, $600 million assembly line at Mobile Aeroplex? A fast-paced video from Airbus paints a picture of how assembly operations will flow inside the company’s first U.S. manufacturing facility, where production has quietly begun in recent days. Airbus is…
Site consultants rank Alabama a top state in Area Development survey
Site selection professionals surveyed by national publication Area Development once again ranked Alabama in the top five states for doing business, citing its strong labor climate and workforce development programs. Alabama ranked No. 5 in Area Development’s 2015 “Top States For Doing Business” analysis, appearing this week online. It’s the sixth consecutive year that Alabama…
Alabama trade mission to South Africa targets business opportunities
Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield is leading a trade and business development mission to South Africa and Tanzania that will permit Alabama businesses to explore partnership and export opportunities in a fast-growing region. Representatives from six Alabama companies joined Secretary Canfield and international trade specialists from around the state on the 10-day mission that officially kicked…
Time Inc. test kitchen investment adds to Birmingham culinary scene
With new restaurants opening every month and a massive Time Inc. test kitchen on the way, Birmingham’s dynamic food scene is gaining national exposure and positioning the Alabama city as a premier culinary destination. In the latest development, New York-based Time Inc. plans to make a multimillion-dollar investment to set up what’s being called its…