The South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council has released its 2025 annual report highlighting economic growth and development across the region, and according to the organization’s latest Boyette Report, the three-county Southwest Kentucky region has seen more than $2.7 billion in new private capital investment since 2022.
This has resulted in more than 9,000 direct, indirect and induced jobs tied to 13 business announcements or expansions.
Executive Director Carter Hendricks said the region’s manufacturing sector continues to drive growth, creating new opportunities for residents and businesses. Recent projects include expansions or developments involving Kitchen Food Company, Toyota Boshoku and retail development by Buc-ee’s.
In 2025, the region celebrated several major developments.
Kitchen Food Company began construction on a 100,000-square-foot facility in Hopkinsville’s Commerce Park, expected to create more than 900 full-time jobs with a $69 million investment.
Toyota Boshoku opened its $225 million smart manufacturing facility in Hopkinsville’s South Park with more than 130 employees, while Brazeway announced a $3.75 million line expansion adding 12 jobs.
Buc-ee’s also purchased land in Oak Grove for a $75 million travel center at Exit 89, expected to create over 200 full-time jobs.
Workforce development has also been highlighted through the SWK IGNITE program, which hosted 40 industry tours and a regional job fair, reaching more than 600 students and introducing them to manufacturing careers.
Through its “Getting Ready to Win” initiative, the council also applied for more than $5 million in grant funding to support development at industrial sites in Elkton, Cadiz and Hopkinsville.
Hendricks said the region’s low taxes, prepared industrial sites and strong workforce continue to attract investment, with regional leaders focused on supporting existing industries while recruiting new companies to the region.
