INDUSTRIES

Skillful Workforce, Abundant Resources, Diverse Industries

Jefferson County is home to a wide variety of industries including transportation, food and agribusiness, electrical, printing and imaging, and advanced manufacturing. With strategic access to transportation routes, a skilled and motivated workforce, natural resources, abundant land, and a growing economy, Jefferson County has the infrastructure businesses need to flourish.

These businesses are well-established members of the community that have taken advantage of all that Jefferson County has to offer, some for decades or even a century.

Companies of all sizes, from international industry giants to small local businesses, thrive in a place where success is established by hard work, dedication to craft, and elevated by cutting-edge technology.

Manufacturing & Industry

Jefferson County has all the necessary resources for manufacturing and industrial plants to operate at the highest level—plenty of available affordable real estate, skilled laborers, natural resources, and a favorable business culture. Convenient access to transportation roots enables efficient distribution and reduces costs.

BUSH BEANS

Founded in 1903 by A.J. Bush, Bush’s Beans has prospered in Jefferson County due in part to access to natural resources and transportation routes connecting the industry to major markets.

OVERMAN INTERNATIONAL

Manufacturing stylish, comfortable furniture since 1977 using inspiration from founder Carl Klote’s Scandinavian background.

MATSUO

Headquartered in Japan, Matsuo manufactures and sells precision springs, temperature sensors, resin molded and specialty machines, and products. Jefferson County is home to its automotive division.

OLD DOMINION FREIGHT LINE

The official freight carrier of Major League Baseball and providing regional and global service since 1934, the company has a network of 235 service centers and has approximately 41,000 tractor trailers.

SONOCO

Formerly Ball MetalPack, Sonoco is a provider of metal packaging for foods and household products. Supplier to government and commercial customers and employing over 17,500 worldwide.

ENGLISH MOUNTAIN SPRING WATER COMPANY

Located within 500 miles from 70% of the U.S. population, John Burleson, founder, chose this promised land to build his business around world-class drinking water.

OSHKOSH

Designing the world’s toughest specialty trucks and access equipment for defense, concrete placement, refuse hauling, and more, Oshkosh has global manufacturing sites employing 15,000 worldwide.

TRU

Manufacturer of affordable housing options for people across Tennessee and Kentucky. Tru builds manufactured and modular homes with an emphasis on affordability, durability, and energy efficiency.

NYRSTAR

For over 150 years Nyrstar has been a top name in the metals industry. They are committed to sourcing, mining, and processing metals in a sustainable manner. Mines in Jefferson County are an important piece of this worldwide operation and a major source of Zinc.

RUGEL CHURCH FURNISHINGS

Ever wonder where your church pews come from? Since 1929 Rugel has furnished over 30,000 churches across the nation and the world with expertly crafted pews. Using high quality lumber, this family business produces custom pews that are built to last.

Retail & Commercial

Small Business, Large Impact

Jefferson County’s pro-business environment is ideal for businesses of all sizes. Small and medium businesses are an important part of Jefferson County’s infrastructure—contributing to the economy, attracting tourists, giving the community character, and creating jobs. From family-owned businesses with a long history, to new businesses with bright futures, here are some examples of small businesses thriving in Jefferson County.

A healthy market of businesses, citizens, and tourists makes Jefferson County a suitable place for retailers and commercial businesses to set up shop.

MOSSBACK DISTILLERY

Named for the early businessmen of the area, Mossback Distillery, located in Jefferson City, is a producer of premium local spirits. Visitors can sample products and enjoy craft cocktails at the Battery Tasting House and Cocktail Lounge located at the distillery. This thriving business was established in 2021 and has quickly become a hot spot for tourists and locals alike.

WHITE PINE MARINE

With two beautiful lakes, there’s a high demand for boats and quality boat servicing in Jefferson County. White Pine Marine is a trusted boat dealer with a wide selection of brands, styles, pre-owned and new boats, pontoons, bass boats, and more. Certified technicians provide a variety of services including winterization, routine maintenance, warranty work, repairs, and detailing. This family-owned business began as a two-bay boat shop in 2001 and has grown into a major boat dealership and marine service provider.

Tourism Development

Tourism is a major contributor to the Jefferson County economy. Mountain views, two beautiful lakes, and charming small towns attract visitors in search of a relaxing vacation. Close proximity to tourist hotspots including the Great Smoky National Park, Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge also bring visitors to the area. Campgrounds, hotels, bed & breakfasts, restaurants, marinas, and stores are well supported by visitors. Click here to learn more about visiting the Lakeside of the Smokies.

ANCHOR DOWN RV RESORT

Anchor Down RV Resort is a pristine campground with 200 campsites located on the shore of Douglas Lake. Anchor Down is a recipient of the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence, an award given to businesses in the hospitality industry that consistently receive exceptional reviews. Great amenities and fun activities (kayaks, boat & jet ski rentals, volleyball courts, firepits, and more) as well as Jefferson County’s convenient location keep their campsites full and keep guests coming back.

Go Local Program

Go Local is a community initiative that encourages Jefferson County residents to support locally owned businesses. The program also informs citizens of upcoming events and spreads the word to surrounding areas.