Holcomb: Indiana Becoming ‘Crosswaters of America’
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowSouth Korea-based POSCO has opened its second U.S. plant at the Port of Indiana-Jeffersonville and Governor Eric Holcomb says it’s another sign that Indiana is becoming the "Crosswaters of America." Holcomb adds the last three years have seen Indiana Ports record the highest shipment totals in their 56-year history. "Ports are very important to our state and to our state’s success," said Holcomb. "When I talk to my coastal cohorts they kind of look at me strange and confused and they wonder about the Ports of Indiana. We are this so called landlocked state and they just don’t believe we are able to do much business on the water, but nothing could be further from the truth."
Holcomb points out that Indiana’s access to "the mighty Ohio River" in the southern portion of the state, coupled with access to Lake Michigan in the northern part of the state, "perfectly situates Indiana to do business with world-class companies like POSCO."
Holcomb says Indiana has become great admirers of POSCO for its track record of success as one of the most innovative, technologically advanced steel companies in the world. Emphasizing the fifth largest steel producer worldwide "will be right here at home in the state that ranks No. 1 in manufacturing in the United States. It really is going to be a perfect win-win partnership."
The Chief Executive Officer of POSCO says the vision for its plant at the Port of Indiana-Jeffersonville is to become a total solutions provider for key manufacturers in the Midwest and southeast, specifically Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee and South Carolina.
"By offering customized solutions for each customer, POSCO can effectively promote mutual growths with our partners in the region," said Oh-Joon Kwon, adding, "POSCO always strives to pursue a win-win partnership in the regions that we work in, because our partner’s success is our success."
Holcomb underscores the fact that as a global company, POSCO could have chosen anywhere in the world.
“We want you to know that we are all going to wake up every day and make sure that you realize it was the absolute best decision that you have made as a company to grow your operation right here in Jeffersonville, Indiana," said Holcomb. "We are eternally grateful for the trust you’ve put in us as Hoosiers."
"We know with your presence comes a lot of global attention. And we’re not just seeking that attention, but we are seeking the investment and all of the friends that you can bring to join you here in this area and all throughout the state of Indiana," said Holcomb. " We want to encourage that. We want to partner with you as we also develop those relationships."