The Columbus Region has cemented itself as a leader in the food and beverage manufacturing industry, producing a vast array of food products that reach consumers across the globe. What’s the secret to success for food manufacturers in Ohio? A closer look at the industry reveals why food and beverage companies continue to thrive in Columbus.
Boasting a complete food value chain, Central Ohio has cultivated a dynamic ecosystem that hosts an impressive 277 food and beverage establishments and counting. All told, the industry brings in more than $3 billion annually to the regional economy.
With advantageous market access, diverse incentive programs, and a competitive business climate, the Columbus Region has positioned itself as a haven for F&B manufacturers. Recent developments—from innovation initiatives to outside commercial investments—further reinforce that the industry is not just thriving but expanding. So, what makes Columbus such a strong hub for food and beverage companies? Here are five key takeaways that highlight the factors driving its success:
1. Columbus is a Premier Destination for Food and Beverage Manufacturing
Central Ohio offers unparalleled advantages for food and beverage manufacturers, starting with its strategic location. The region is situated within a day’s drive of 45% of the U.S. population and 48% of the country’s headquarters operations, as well as 45% of U.S. restaurants and 47% of U.S. supermarket stores. This market access ensures fast and efficient delivery to consumers nationwide. Companies can also leverage Columbus’ competitive business climate, with no state corporate income or profits tax, diverse incentive programs and abundant, low-cost energy. Put together, these factors reduce operational costs and enhance connectivity, empowering food manufacturers in the Columbus Region to scale their business with ease.
2. Ohio is Home to a Complete Food Value Chain
Columbus, Ohio’s complete food supply chain is as rich and diverse as the commodities it produces. With 76,000 farms statewide, Ohio is a leading grower of grains, vegetables, fruit and livestock—ranking in the nation’s top 10 for soft red wheat, soybean, and corn production. These farms lay the groundwork for 1,300 food manufacturing facilities, where household names like General Mills and Nestlé turn raw ingredients into grocery store staples.
Companies like Nuvo Packaging, Crown Cork and Seal, Interpak and Sonoco Products add sustainability to the supply chain by producing recyclable food packaging. Modern warehousing facilities—run by industry giants like McLane Co., Campbell Soup Company and Kroger—ensure these goods are packaged and distributed efficiently. This seamless integration of raw materials, manufacturing, packaging and logistics creates boundless opportunities for businesses in the Columbus Region.
3. R&D Initiatives in the Columbus Region are Fueling Innovation
Innovation is at the heart of the Columbus Region’s food and beverage industry. Establishing a research and product development center in Ohio means tapping into the region’s vast institutional knowledge and public-private networks. As a result, food processors can explore new flavors, improve food safety and nutrition and bring new products to market. Nestlé, for instance, operates three global innovation centers in the state alone.
The Ohio State University is a major player here, hosting a world-class Food Science and Technology Department that collaborates closely with industry partners across a range of food research centers and programs. From plant-based proteins to food manufacturing automation, the Columbus Region remains at the forefront of food innovation, driving advancements that benefit companies and consumers alike.
4. Major Investments from Cerelia, Marussia Signal Larger Industry Momentum
Thanks to all these assets, Columbus, Ohio, is home to some of the biggest players in the food manufacturing industry. That includes four of the top 100 food processing companies: J.M. Smucker, Great Lakes Cheese, Lancaster Colony and SugarCreek. And global food and beverage companies continue to flock to Ohio, underscoring a larger trend of investment in the state.
France-based Cérélia, a leader in ready-made doughs and bakery products, recently invested $12 million to expand its production facility in Whitehall, OH. Similarly, American beverage manufacturing company Marussia chose Central Ohio for its first U.S. production facility and the relocation of its headquarters. These projects testify to the Columbus Region’s reputation as a premier destination for food companies to thrive.
5. Food Manufacturers in Ohio Thrive with Skilled Workforce and Regional Support
No company can succeed without the right people. More than 12,500 people work in the Columbus Region’s food and beverage industry, with plenty of skilled talent available for newcomers like Cérélia and Marussia. Plus, strong local workforce development programs support companies with their job training and upskilling needs.
Finally, the Columbus Region provides extensive support for large-scale manufacturers and local entrepreneurs alike. The JobsOhio Small Business Grant is one example: it helped home-grown Bake Me Happy expand to a brand-new production facility with high-quality equipment. In every part of the supply chain and at every stage of growth, Central Ohio is building a diverse and resilient food ecosystem.
If you’re hungry for success, the Columbus Region offers more than just a taste—think instead of a full-course meal of opportunities in the food and beverage industry. Some of the world’s largest food companies, like J.M. Smucker, got their start in Ohio—and they’ve stayed close to home for a reason. From its strategic location and robust food value chain to its thriving innovation ecosystem and skilled workforce, Central Ohio has all the right ingredients to attract leaders in the sector.
Contact us to be a part of the Columbus Region’s thriving food and beverage landscape.
