As Central Texas’ industrial gateway, Temple has been a launchpad for experienced manufacturers such as Reynolds Consumer Products, East Penn Manufacturing and Lane Enterprises. From 2010-2020, Temple saw a 28% increase in manufacturing employment thanks to companies growing in the region. More than 28 million people reside within 2.5 hours of Temple, including in nearby metros like Dallas, Austin and San Antonio. The manufacturing industry continues to grow in Central Texas, with over 130 businesses employing more than 6,500 professionals.
Several factors contribute to the strength of Temple’s manufacturing industry. The city’s proximity to Fort Hood provides a pipeline to the 3,600 veterans who transition out of the U.S. Army post annually. Additionally, I-35 runs through the region and connects the nation from north to south, making Temple an attractive option for manufacturers seeking easy access to supply chains and distribution channels. Costs in Temple are also 15% lower than the national average, and the city has 1,600 acres of shovel-ready land and existing industrial facilities at competitive real estate pricing.
Here are a few of the manufacturing companies in Temple that are advancing this growing industry.
Wilsonart International
From its global headquarters in Temple, Wilsonart International currently employs close to 1,000 people. The company was founded in Temple in 1956 and is a leader in engineered surfaces for furniture, office and retail space.
In 2019 the engineered surface manufacturer formed a partnership with Hyundai L&C USA known as American Surfacing Materials, LLC. The joint venture created 50 new jobs and increased Wilsonart’s production capabilities to 300,000 sheets of solid surface annually.
The company was also the recipient of several industry awards in 2021, including the Gold Innovation Award in the Engineered Surface category of the Home Builder Executive Innovation Awards.
Temple Machine Shop (TMS Hydraulics)
Manufacturer of precision hydraulic cylinders, TMS Hydraulics, has been doing business in Temple for more than four decades and has undergone several expansions throughout the years. The company plays a large role in Temple High School’s Wildcat Workforce — a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program that helps students develop real-world skills relevant to employers.
Temple also boasts several customized training options that grow local manufacturing employment, such as Temple College’s Business and Continuing Education Division. Texas State Technical College allows graduates to earn technical and associate degrees in programs like precision machining and welding.
Beyond TMS Hydraulics, over 40 metal fabrication companies exist in Temple including Texas Hydraulics, and Titan Machine & Design. These companies and more contribute to a demand for supplies from Temple’s strong furniture manufacturing industry. Metal fabricators in Central Texas also provide parts manufacturing for the auto, aerospace, energy and medical device industries.
Niagara Bottling
The nation’s largest family-owned and operated beverage supplier, Niagara Bottling, has thrived in Temple since its $90 million capital investment in the city in 2019. After the company outgrew its existing facility in Temple Industrial Park, it found ample room to expand with Temple’s 1,600 acres of shovel-ready land. Niagara Bottling’s 450,000 square foot facility has led to more than 80 new jobs for the region.
Sunbelt-Solomon Solutions
While Sunbelt-Solomon Solutions has had a presence in Temple since 1981, its operations have continued to grow. In 2020, the electrical transformer and power solution provider invested $2 million into a 20,000 square foot expansion — creating 100 new jobs within the city.
To assist with hiring, Sunbelt has been a participating employer in local job fairs specifically catering to manufacturers in Temple. Sunbelt stated the city’s sound employment base for maintenance technicians, electrical technicians and shop labor was a major reason for the expansion.
Manufacturers choose Temple for many reasons, and the established infrastructure that nurtures new manufacturing talent from high school to career is a key reason. Contact us to get started building your manufacturing business in Central Texas.