An international manufacturer of steel tire cord desired to expand its production operations throughout the U.S. market. The ideal location would serve the Midwest, southeast and central U.S. markets for shipment to the company’s new and established customer base. Austin performed two separate studies for the company by first conducting a Favorable Area Analysis assessment to identify the best area based on annual cost and non-cost factors. Important location considerations included quality industrial sites at a reasonable cost, labor availability and a quality local technical school for training needs, an area with a positive history regarding labor relations, a good sources for all utilities especially electric power, and incentive programs including worker training and grants to assist in site development. In addition to the following two studies, Austin also conducted a similar analysis in Canada.