CARBONDALE – Southern Illinois has been officially recognized as one of Business Facilities’ “2025 Top Logistics Hubs” in the United States, a prestigious honor that highlights the region’s strategic location, connectivity, and ongoing business investments. The recognition places Southern Illinois on the national stage as a rising force in supply chain and logistics, offering unparalleled advantages for businesses seeking efficient and cost-effective solutions.
“In Southern Illinois, our R4 Advantage—rivers, rail, roads, and runways—unites with our central U.S. location to give companies a competitive edge, accelerating faster delivery to customers, cutting costs, and powering growth in a region built for movement and momentum,” noted SI Now Executive Director Deb Barnett.
Strategically situated at the intersection of Interstates 57, 64, and 24, Southern Illinois offers direct highway access to key Midwest and Southeast markets — with eight major cities within five hours drive time. The region also boasts access to six Class I railroads, the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, and a one-hour flight to Chicago O’Hare.
Global companies such as Continental Tire, General Dynamics, AISIN, and Prysmian (formerly General Cable) have been taking advantage of Southern Illinois’ centralized location for decades. Others, like Manner Polymers and AECI Schirm (both Texas-based companies) are expanding into the region, looking to use the strategic location as an opportunity to grow into the Midwest.
As shared by Intersect Illinois, Manner Polymers’ Controller Matt Love noted, “The location of Southern Illinois greatly impacted our decision. Not only is Mount Vernon at the intersection of two major interstate highways, but it also has several major rail line intersections. These facts, coupled with the location relative to current and prospective customers, made it a logical choice for Manner Polymers.”
The recognition from Business Facilities is the result of a unified regional effort led by Southern Illinois Now alongside companies and partners throughout the region.
“Being named a Top Logistics Hub by Business Facilities is more than a nod to our prime location—it’s a tribute to the companies, communities, and partners across our 17-county region and the State of Illinois who work together to build a foundation where businesses don’t just land, they launch and thrive,” concluded Barnett.
With Aisin’s recent 463,000 square foot logistics center expansion, over 4,000 employees at Continental Tire, a $63.8 million expansion by Prysmian, and a $54 million investment by Manner Polymers, just to name a few, Southern Illinois is not just growing—it’s a powerhouse of companies driven by a skilled workforce and a legacy of industrial excellence.
For more information on Southern Illinois’ logistics advantages and available sites, visit Logistics & Transportation | SI Now.
