Even as it ramps up a technology and bioscience sector that’s expanding in every direction, Cabarrus County is working to ensure that its manufacturing base stays healthy and growing as well.

A low cost of doing business, well-trained workforce and menu of incentives have brought and grown manufacturers of everything from food to fiber optics. Companies from around the country and world call Cabarrus County home, and with each new or expanded resident often comes other related manufacturers as well.

At PreGel America, the ingredients for specialty desserts are on the menu. The global firm, based in Italy, has its American administrative offices, distribution center, production facility and professional training center in Concord, so much of its day-to-day operations rely on this hub, says Marco Casol, president and CEO.

When the company opened its North American subsidiary in 2002, the site decision was based on several variables including a location on the East Coast, availability of international flights at nearby Charlotte Douglas International Airport, proximity to the Port of Charleston, climate and the burgeoning economic market that Charlotte offered, Casol says.

“The decision to build our facility in the International Business Park in Concord was influenced by the costs and tax incentives offered by the city of Concord, the land available and access to highways. Concord and Cabarrus County have been a pleasure to work with and we are impressed by the commitment they have shown to us and to seeing that we continue to grow and succeed as a part of their city and county,” he says.

At Oiles America Corp., the North American subsidiary of Oiles Corp. of Japan, the focus is on crafting bearing products for a variety of industrial uses. The facility is the company’s only operation in the United States, and has been growing steadily since its 1991 opening, says Bob Schulmeister, plant manager.

“Most of what we make here are bearings and bushings for the automotive industry,” Schulmeister says. “We have found Concord to be extremely open and helpful from the start, and we have felt like this is really our home.”

With its facility now spanning 80,000 square feet, the plant has 100 employees working three shifts and in the coming years will likely undergo another physical expansion, Schulmeister says.

By working with all types of manufacturers over the years, the county has built a diversified portfolio of services and incentives that continue to serve the region well, says Ryan McDaniels, vice president of economic development for Cabarrus Economic Development.

“We understand that a diverse economy is a strong economy and increasing the diversity of the employment base allows the county to withstand economic downturns,” McDaniels says. “We are fortunate to have many tools in our toolbox.”

The agency is working to grow the already substantial automotive/motorsports presence in the county, as well as to assist the emerging life sciences sector in its expansion.

But, as McDaniels adds, “Our targets are not set in stone, and we are constantly studying market trends to find potential companies.”