PPG has announced plans to build a new manufacturing plant in Loudon County, Tennessee. The company, which produces paints, coatings, and specialty materials, will invest $300 million over the next four years to support increased demand for paints and coatings in the automotive industry. The new 250,000-square-foot facility will manufacture paints and coatings products and solutions for automakers and automotive parts suppliers. According to the company, the new plant will employ 130 workers, produce 11 million gallons of paint and coatings annually, and will be operational in 2026. Additionally, PPG’s investment will be used to enhance its facilities in Cleveland, Ohio and San Juan Del Rio, Mexico by adding new equipment and processes.

What people are saying

In a recent quote, Tim Knavish, PPG chairman and chief executive officer, said, “Innovation is at the forefront of PPG’s purpose in protecting and beautifying the world. These investments continue to modernize and digitize our manufacturing capabilities, and demonstrate PPG’s continued focus on quality and service to our customers as the premier single-source coatings supplier for every vehicle surface. As we continue to see a resurgence of manufacturing in the U.S., PPG will leverage this new facility and our other site investments to maximize quality, improve operational efficiency, and reduce product complexity within our manufacturing footprint.”

Alisha Bellezza, PPG senior vice president, automotive coatings, added, “As the automotive industry continues to transform, we’re excited to expand our manufacturing capabilities to meet the evolving needs of our automotive customers. The strategic location of PPG’s new facility in Tennessee also creates a more efficient and effective supply chain with close proximity to many automotive manufacturing facilities, which will further enhance the service experience for our customers.”

Manufacturers investing in Tennessee

Food manufacturer invests $4 million to expand operations in Tennessee 
The expansion will include adding a second shift and additional space.

Firestone invests $8.9 million to expand manufacturing and distribution in Tennessee 
The proposed expansion includes a warehouse center and small box kitting operation. 

Protomet Corporation spends $25 million to expand engineering and manufacturing operations in Tennessee 
Protomet Corporation currently has plants in Loudon and Anderson counties.

Investing in American manufacturing in 2024

This map shows where manufacturers are choosing to invest their resources, whether they are building new production facilities or expanding existing plants.