The SPAR-KY Consumer Product Industry Economic Development Plan

In 2024, the founders of TCO-Corbin, along with stakeholders from the Corbin, Kentucky area, initiated a research study. This study aimed to identify the benefits of the Tri-County area (Whitley, Knox, and Laurel counties) for surrounding larger communities (within 5-hours), focusing on sectors such as consumer product manufacturing, supply chain and logistics, and retailing.

SPAR-KY Is Delivering Four Key Consumer
Product Industry Subjects

SUPPLY CHAIN

Discover the ultimate hub for supply chain, warehousing, and logistics, offering a central location perfectly positioned to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. With state-of-the-art facilities and easy access to major highways and transportation networks, our location ensures seamless connectivity and optimized distribution for businesses of all sizes.

PROCESSING

This region is the ideal hub for utilizing existing contract manufacturing services or setting up your own facilities, offering comprehensive solutions for all your manufacturing needs. With a skilled workforce, competitive operating costs, and a supportive business environment, our location provides the perfect foundation for efficient and successful manufacturing operations.

ANALYTICS

This region is already equipped with industry entities offering analytical services related to manufacturing, supply chain management, and collaborations with retailers and food service customers. With advanced data analytics capabilities and a network of experienced professionals, our location supports businesses in making informed decisions, optimizing operations, and driving growth through actionable insights.

RETAIL

Comprehensive services tailored to a wide range of industry groups, including traditional and specialty retail, food service, government, e-commerce, hospitality, institutional, and many others. Our region offers specialized support, expert consultation, and innovative solutions designed to meet the unique needs of each sector, ensuring success and growth for businesses of all types.

CORBIN
The ideal Center For Business

Corbin, Kentucky, is a strategically located town in the southeastern United States, renowned for its pivotal position along major transportation routes such as Interstates 75 and 64. This prime location provides exceptional connectivity to significant metropolitan areas, making it an ideal hub for logistics and distribution. Beyond its logistical advantages, Corbin boasts a rich history and a welcoming community, contributing to its appeal as both a business center and a charming place to live. The town’s unique blend of accessibility and local charm makes Corbin a key player in regional commerce and a desirable destination for businesses and residents alike.

Corbin-KY

Surrounding Communities

  • Lexington, KY (population ~320,000) – 1.5 hours from Corbin
  • Louisville, KY (population ~630,000) – 2.5 hours from Corbin
  • Cincinnati, OH (population ~310,000) – 3.0 hours from Corbin
  • Knoxville, TN (population ~190,000) – 1.5 hours from Corbin
  • Nashville, TN (population ~700,000) – 3.5 hours from Corbin
  • Chattanooga, TN (population ~180,000) – 3.5 hours from Corbin
  • Indianapolis, IN (population ~870,000) – 4.0 hours from Corbin
  • Huntington, WV (population ~45,000) – 3.0 hours from Corbin
  • Charleston, WV (population ~48,000) – 3.5 hours from Corbin
  • Asheville, NC (population ~95,000) – 2.5 hours from Corbin
  • Columbus, OH (population ~905,000) – 4.0 hours from Corbin
  • Frankfort, KY (population ~28,000) – 2.0 hours from Corbin
  • Bowling Green, KY (population ~71,000) – 3.5 hours from Corbin
  • Pigeon Forge, TN (population ~6,000) – 2.0 hours from Corbin
  • Atlanta, GA (population ~500,000) – 4.5 hours from Corbin
  • St. Louis, MO (population ~300,000) – 4.5 hours from Corbin
  • Huntsville, AL (population ~200,000) – 4.5 hours from Corbin
  • Charlotte, NC (population ~885,000) – 4.5 hours from Corbin
  • Evansville, IN (population ~118,000) – 4.5 hours from Corbin
  • Dayton, OH (population ~140,000) – 4.5 hours from Corbin
  • Birmingham, AL (population ~210,000) – 4.5 hours from Corbin
  • Roanoke, VA (population ~100,000) – 4.5 hours from Corbin
  • Greenville, SC (population ~70,000) – 3.5 hours from Corbin
  • Murfreesboro, TN (population ~150,000) – 4.0 hours from Corbin
  • Johnson City, TN (population ~67,000) – 3.5 hours from Corbin

Total Area Population

Total Population:

69,343,386

Future Area Rail Opportunities

CORBIN-Railyard-Area-CSX

Area stakeholders are looking to create rail supply chain opportunities for the Corbin area, recognizing its strategic significance for business operations, particularly in logistics and manufacturing. The rail yard serves as a crucial node in the transportation network, facilitating efficient rail freight services that connect Corbin to major markets across the eastern United States. This yard supports the movement of a wide range of goods, including automobiles, consumer products, and other freight, enhancing distribution capabilities for businesses based in Corbin, both current and future. By leveraging rail transport’s cost-effectiveness and reliability, companies can reduce shipping times and improve supply chain efficiency. With its strategic location and robust infrastructure, the rail yard significantly bolsters Corbin’s appeal as a business center, providing vital support for manufacturing and logistics operations.

CORBIN Area Highways

Corbin, Kentucky, is strategically positioned along several major highways, making it an ideal hub for logistics, manufacturing, and other business activities. The city is located near Interstate
75, a major north-south corridor that facilitates efficient transportation of goods to and from key
markets in the Midwest and Southeast. Additionally, U.S. Route 25E connects Corbin to Interstate 81 in Tennessee, enhancing east-west access and providing a direct route to major distribution centers and ports.
This network of highways supports rapid and reliable supply chain operations, making Corbin an attractive base for businesses looking to optimize their logistics and manufacturing processes.
The accessibility to these thoroughfares ensures that businesses in Corbin can easily reach larger populated areas, streamline their distribution channels, and reduce transportation costs.

Area Attractions and Things To Do

KFC-Sanders-Cafe-Museum

Corbin, Kentucky, is home to a unique piece of American culinary history—the KFC (Sanders Cafe) Museum. This iconic site is where Colonel Harland Sanders perfected his famous fried chicken recipe, which has since become a global sensation. Visitors can explore the original cafe, now a museum, to see memorabilia, the original kitchen, and even the dining area where it all began. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the humble beginnings of one of the world’s most famous fast-food chains, making it a must-visit attraction for any food enthusiast or history buff.
In addition to the KFC Museum, Corbin is surrounded by natural beauty and exciting adventures. Cumberland Falls, often called the “Niagara of the South,” is a breathtaking sight just a short drive away, Laurel Lake offers pristine waters perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Treetop Adventures provides an exhilarating experience with zip lines and aerial courses. The Mint Gaming Hall, located right beside the Sanders Cafe, offers gambling and horse racing for those looking for some entertainment. Nearby London, Kentucky, recognized as the cycling capital of the state.

Ideal Place to Live and Work

Neighborhood

Corbin, Kentucky, is an ideal place to settle down and put down roots, offering a perfect blend of affordability, opportunity, and community. The cost of living in Corbin is significantly lower than in many larger cities, making it easier to find affordable homes that fit a variety of budgets. The local economy is robust, with plenty of job opportunities in various sectors, from healthcare and education to retail and manufacturing. For entrepreneurs, Corbin provides a supportive environment for starting a business,. This small town offers a sense of belonging and neighborly charm that can be hard to find in larger urban areas.
Corbin’s location provides easy access to larger cities, making it an attractive option for those who enjoy a quieter lifestyle but still want the amenities of metropolitan areas. Knoxville and Lexington, are both within a reasonable distance, offering additional cultural, educational, and entertainment options. This proximity allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds—peaceful, small-town living with the conveniences of city life just a short trip away. Corbin’s combination of affordable housing, job opportunities, and strategic location makes it a prime choice for families, professionals, and retirees looking to establish a lasting home.

Lexington, KY, Knoxville, TN and Louisville KY

Lexington-Knoxville-Louisville

Corbin, Kentucky, is conveniently located approximately 90 miles north of Knoxville, Tennessee, about 95 miles south of Lexington, Kentucky, and roughly 145 miles southeast of Louisville, Kentucky, making it ideally situated for easy access to all three cities.

  • Lexington, Kentucky, with a population of around 320,000, offers visitors attractions such as the Kentucky Horse Park, the historic Keeneland Racecourse, and vibrant downtown areas with diverse dining and shopping options.
  • Knoxville, Tennessee, home to approximately 190,000 people, features the University of Tennessee, the Knoxville Zoo, and the bustling Market Square, offering a mix of cultural, educational, and recreational activities for visitors.
  • Louisville, Kentucky, with a population of about 630,000, boasts attractions like the iconic Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, and the Muhammad Ali Center, offering rich cultural and historical experiences. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s thriving bourbon scene, vibrant arts district, and beautiful waterfront parks along the Ohio River.

The Retail Cooperative (Trusted Consumer Outlets) uses mostly recycled materials.   Recycled materials are crucial for reducing waste in landfills and conserving natural resources. It also lowers the carbon footprint by consuming less energy during manufacturing and enhancing brand image by appealing to eco-conscious consumers.

Economically, recycled materials can reduce production costs and meet the growing demand for sustainable products, potentially increasing sales. Additionally, using recycled materials helps companies comply with regulatory standards and future-proofs them against stricter sustainability mandates. Overall, adopting recycled materials in pre-fabricated corrugated displays and product shippers is environmentally responsible, economically beneficial, and aligns with market demands.