Location and infrastructure. Two integral components Winston-Salem, North Carolina, readily offers to those locating logistics and distribution companies. More and more, companies are finding that Winston-Salem offers the right mix of infrastructure, climate, quality of life and physical ability to support this growing industry. In fact, the Winston-Salem and Triad area retains approximately 25 percent of the transportation and warehousing industry's employment in North Carolina.
        With transportation accounting for roughly 55 percent of distribution costs, location and access are key:
        • Winston-Salem is a gateway to the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic and Ohio Valley regions , located within 600 miles (965 km.) of over half the U.S. population.
        • About 60 percent of the nation's industrial base is within a two-day drive.
        • North Carolina has the country's largest state-maintained highway system, with excellent access to Interstates 40, 85, 95, 77 and future 73/74, and several major U.S. highways.
        • Numerous motor carriers operate local terminals for state-wide and cross-country shipments.
        • Norfolk Southern, Yadkin Valley and Winston-Salem South-bound provide rail service.
        • The Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTIA) is just 25 minutes from Winston-Salem. The newest, planned FedEx hub is anticipated to begin operation in 2009, providing a distinct advantage for local customers.
        • An intermodal port facility at PTIA enables companies to clear customs for inbound and outbound shipments moving through Wilmington and Morehead City ports.
        North Carolina has long been a manufacturing leader. While this industry is evolving, the growth of a logistics/distribution hub is a natural extension for Winston-Salem as it moves toward advanced manufacturing with quick response requirements and just-in-time distribution. In fact, both Sara Lee and Krispy Kreme have set up distribution facilities in their hometown of Winston-Salem.
        In addition to meeting the unique needs of the logistics industry, Winston-Salem also offers businesses an unparalleled combination of business climate and quality of life. Winston-Salem readily competes in areas of: convenience and access, experienced work force, competitive tax rates. And when it comes to attracting and retaining employees, quality of life is often a deciding factor. Winston-Salem's second to none!
        Winston-Salem is an emerging logistics hub not only because of its key location and infrastructure factors but also because this city contributes so much more to the success and life of your business and your employees: Winston-Salem is "Where Business Lives."