Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM SEPTEMBER 2021 22 The LIRA is released by the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University in the third week after each quarter's closing. The next LIRA release date is October 21, 2021. The Remodeling Futures Program, initiated by the Joint Center for Housing Studies in 1995, is a comprehensive study of the factors influencing the growth and changing characteristics of housing renovation and repair activity in the United States. The Program seeks to produce a better understanding of the home improvement industry and its relationship to the broader residential construction industry. The Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies advances understanding of housing issues and informs policy. Through its research, education and public outreach programs, the Center helps leaders in government, business and the civic sectors make decisions that effectively address the needs of cities and communities. Through graduate and executive courses, as well as fellowships and internship opportunities, the Center also trains and inspires the next generation of housing leaders. Please visit www.jchs.harvard.edu for more information. KENTUCKY IS NOW HOME TO PRODUCTION OF THE FASTEST GROWING SEGMENT IN REFRIGERATION AFTER COMPLETION OF $60 MILLION INVESTMENT Investment at Appliance Park includes production of 4-door refrigerators, conversion to a low global warming potential refrigerant and more than 245 new manufacturing jobs GE Appliances (GEA), a Haier company, is opening its newest production line making 4-door refrigerator models – the fastest-growing segment in high-end refrigeration – at its Louisville-based headquarters and largest U.S. manufacturing site. More than 245 new manufacturing jobs have been added to support the new production line. "Since 2016, GE Appliances has invested $1 billion in new products, technology and its U.S. operations, and has created more than 2,000 new jobs, with close to 1,000 new jobs in Louisville," said Kevin Nolan, president and chief executive officer for GE Appliances. "We are committed to growing our manufacturing footprint in the United States to serve customers faster and better. This investment demonstrates our commitment to becoming the leading appliance manufacturer in the U.S. We are thrilled to produce these high-end refrigerators in the United States." The $60 million investment, which increases manufacturing capacity, enhances the company's ability to meet consumer demand and positions GEA for long-term growth. "GE Appliances has a long history as an innovator and jobs- creator here in Louisville, and with today's announcement is showing a renewed commitment to our commonwealth, our people and our growing manufacturing industry," said Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, who also attended the event. "With more than 245 new jobs for Kentuckians, we are furthering our positive momentum and growth as we continue to build an economy that works for every Kentucky family." Despite the pandemic, the GEA refrigeration team successfully navigated many challenges as they worked to design and install the new line. "The completion of this investment shines a light on the dedication of our workforce," stated Bill Good, vice president of manufacturing for GE Appliances. "The plant expansion was completed during COVID, while suppliers and vendors were unable to travel to the plant and product demand was at record levels. Our teams worked tirelessly to ensure progress without disrupting production." PRODUCT INNOVATION The 4-door refrigerator consists of a traditional fresh food area, a freezer and a convertible section that can be used as either a freezer or refrigerator. The plant will also add new quad-door and counter-depth models to its line-up in the future. I N D U S T R Y [ N E W S ]

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