Honda chose Ohio for a new plant for several reasons:
Strategic Location: Ohio is geographically located in the heart of the United States, making it a central and easily accessible location for distribution across the country. This proximity helps reduce transportation costs and allows for efficient supply chain management.
Skilled Workforce: Ohio has a strong manufacturing tradition and a skilled workforce with experience in automotive and related industries. Honda likely recognized the availability of a capable and qualified labor pool, which is crucial for establishing and running a successful manufacturing operation.
Supportive Business Environment: Ohio has a favorable business climate with various incentives and support programs for attracting and retaining businesses. These may include tax incentives, grants, workforce development initiatives, and infrastructure investments, making it an attractive choice for Honda to establish a new plant.
Supplier Network: Ohio has a well-developed network of suppliers and automotive-related industries. Proximity to these suppliers can help streamline the supply chain, reduce logistics costs, and facilitate just-in-time manufacturing processes.
Infrastructure: Ohio has a robust transportation infrastructure, including an extensive network of highways, railroads, and access to ports and airports. This infrastructure provides efficient connectivity for the movement of goods and materials.
Existing Honda Presence: Honda already had a significant presence in Ohio with its Marysville Auto Plant, which has been operational since 1982. Expanding in Ohio allows Honda to leverage the existing infrastructure, knowledge base, and supply chain connections that have been established over the years.
Overall, the combination of strategic location, skilled workforce, favorable business environment, supplier network, infrastructure, and an existing Honda presence likely contributed to the decision to choose Ohio for a new plant. These factors align with Honda's goals of efficient manufacturing, cost-effectiveness, and access to key markets.