A Center of Gravity for Chemical & Materials Manufacturing
Where Materials Meet Momentum
Some areas follow industry trends. The Cincinnati region is proven ground to ensure success. Here, chemical and materials companies find the infrastructure to scale, the logistics to move fast, and the talent to keep complex operations running strong. Whether you're producing foundational chemicals or next-gen materials for semiconductors, EVs, or sustainable packaging, this is a place built to support complex manufacturing, emerging technologies, and the evolving demands of modern supply chains.Key areas of industry growth in Greater Cincinnati:
- Basic & specialty chemicals
- Semiconductor & EV-related materials
- Additive manufacturing (3D printing)
- Packaging and sustainable packaging
- Consumer products
Cincinnati MSA Chemicals & Materials Industry Snapshot
Business Locations
Industry Workers
Growth in Jobs (2019-2024)
Gross Regional Product (GRP)
Source: Lightcast 2025.2
Proven Ground for Chemicals & Materials Growth
Ohio is already the #1 state for polymer and plastics output, and the Cincinnati region stands at the center of that momentum. It’s no surprise chemical manufacturing here is twice as concentrated as the national average.
The region’s workforce is experienced across key segments (basic chemical production, plastics and resins, adhesives, cleaning compounds, and toiletries), making it easy for companies to scale with confidence.
In addition, the business community here is deeply connected and actively partners with REDI Cincinnati to support business growth. If you’re seeking to expand and grow, this is an ideal location for high-tech production, integrated logistics, and the evolving demands of modern supply chains.
Leading Chemicals & Manufacturing Companies in the Cincinnati Region
A High-Performance Ecosystem for Manufacturers
#1
Largest state for polymer and plastics output
#1
Nation's largest inland port
#1
CVG is the fastest growing freight & cargo airport in the nation
#11
11th largest U.S. metro exporter of chemical products
$3.5B
in chemical manufacturing international exports
70%
Easily reach 70%+ of the U.S. plastics supply chain from Ohio
Success Story
KAO
KAO USA, the North American arm of Japan-based Kao Corporation, has maintained a strong presence in Cincinnati since acquiring the Andrew Jergens Company in 1988. The company’s manufacturing and R&D operations remain at its historic Spring Grove Avenue campus, where it produces leading personal care brands such as Jergens, Biore, Curel and John Frieda. In 2012, Kao relocated its U.S. headquarters to downtown Cincinnati, consolidating marketing, sales and administrative functions. The company employs more than 500 people in the region and invested $35 million to expand its operations, adding new jobs and capacity.
Success Story
BASF
BASF operates a key manufacturing site in St. Bernard, part of the Cincinnati region, where it produces bio-based surfactants used in personal care, home care, and industrial cleaning products. This facility is the only one in North America that manufactures these renewable, biodegradable ingredients, making it a strategic hub for BASF’s sustainability efforts. In response to growing market demand, BASF is investing more than $70 million to expand the site by 2025, creating 40 new jobs. The company also launched a hands-on apprenticeship program with Cincinnati State to train local talent and strengthen its workforce pipeline.
Notable Recent Project Announcements
Global engineering innovator expanding operations in Springboro
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