Crestview Manufacturing Expansion Brings 90 New Jobs to Florida Panhandle

Sims-Lohman, a Cincinnati-based cabinet distributor and countertop fabricator, has acquired a 65,000-square-foot facility in Crestview to serve as its new Gulf Coast headquarters. The move represents a significant manufacturing investment in Florida’s Panhandle and will create at least 90 local jobs once the operation reaches full capacity.

The facility, located at 5680 John Givens Road near Bob Sikes Airport, was previously occupied by power cable manufacturer Southwire, which vacated the property in 2024. Sims-Lohman specializes in high-end granite and quartz countertop fabrication and in the distribution of cabinetry, bringing advanced manufacturing capabilities to Okaloosa County.

Building Production Capacity in Florida’s Growing Manufacturing Sector

According to Nathan Sparks, executive director of One Okaloosa Economic Development Council, the new facility will house both administrative functions and multiple distribution outlets. The plant will focus on shaping and cutting granite and quartz countertops, positioning Sims-Lohman to serve growing residential and commercial construction demand across the Gulf Coast region.

Florida’s construction sector has maintained steady activity throughout 2024 and into 2025. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that residential construction spending in the South Atlantic region, which includes Florida, increased 4.2 percent year-over-year through August 2025. This growth creates sustained demand for companies like Sims-Lohman that supply building materials and custom fabrication services.

Manufacturing Job Creation Strengthens Regional Workforce

The 90 positions Sims-Lohman plans to fill represent meaningful employment opportunities for Okaloosa County residents. Manufacturing jobs typically offer competitive wages and benefits compared to other sectors, contributing to household financial stability and local economic growth.

John Beiersdorfer, CEO of Sims-Lohman, emphasized the company’s commitment to the local community in a recent statement. He noted that the expansion represents not just operational efficiency but a long-term investment in bringing jobs and opportunity to the region. For manufacturers considering facility expansions or relocations, workforce availability, transportation access, and proximity to growth markets often drive site selection decisions.

One Okaloosa Economic Development Council assisted Sims-Lohman throughout the facility search process, demonstrating how economic development partnerships help manufacturers identify suitable locations and access local resources. Companies evaluating expansion opportunities benefit from working with regional economic development organizations that understand local workforce capabilities, infrastructure, and business incentives.

What This Manufacturing Investment Means for Florida Businesses

Sims-Lohman’s expansion reflects broader trends in Florida’s manufacturing sector. The state has attracted significant manufacturing investment in recent years, particularly in industries tied to construction, aerospace, and advanced materials. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, manufacturing activity in the Southeast has remained resilient despite national headwinds, supported by population growth and infrastructure development.

For existing manufacturers in the region, Sims-Lohman’s arrival may create opportunities for supplier relationships, workforce development partnerships, and shared logistics solutions. The company held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 7, 2025, officially opening the facility to the community.

Manufacturers interested in learning more about career opportunities at the new Crestview facility can visit the company’s website. Okaloosa County Commission Chairman Paul Mixon welcomed Sims-Lohman to the community and expressed optimism about the opportunities the company will create for local residents.

How Manufacturing Facilities Support Business Growth and Financial Planning

For manufacturing companies, facility expansions require careful financial planning and operational coordination. Capital investment decisions, workforce recruitment strategies, and supply chain logistics all factor into successful launches. Our advisors help manufacturers assess facility expansion opportunities, manage capital investments, and support profitable growth strategies that strengthen long-term operations.

Together, we help manufacturing leaders do Moore. Explore how our accounting, assurance, and advisory services support the financial strength of manufacturers at our Manufacturing Services page.

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