News

For over 55 years, EPI has played a key role in the electrical industry. As we approach the fourth quarter of the year, it’s important to reflect on the developments within the industry and the broader economic landscape shaping our nation.

The long-lasting effects of COVID-19, combined with global inflation have impacted the U.S. economy unevenly. While some regions have faced challenges, south central states like Texas, Oklahoma, Arizona, New Mexico and a few others have experienced growth.

For the second consecutive year, Texas leads the nation in industrial, semiconductors, manufacturing, and distribution development. The state’s economy has been further boosted by an increased influx of people relocating from other states. In turn, the population increase has contributed to more real estate availability, a lower cost of living, and a wider variety of job opportunities. Key benefits to a strong economy are its power capacity, transportation systems, infrastructure and more citizens with a higher education. Texas’ success can be attributed to its four major economic hubs: Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio.

Austin: A Hub for Innovation

The Austin area has become a leader in computer chip manufacturing, driving a wave of digital manufacturing efforts. In fact, UT Austin’s Texas Institute for Electronics (TIE) program was awarded a $840 million grant by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to build a Department of Defense (DOD) microelectronics manufacturing center to advance the U.S.’s semiconductor industry. 

Austin also plays a key role in the electric vehicle industry, with one of Tesla’s largest plants located in north Austin. This metroplex is also evolving into a distribution hub for industrial, electronic, and telecommunication products. 

Aside from the tech and manufacturing sectors, Austin’s housing market is vastly expanding, with rapid growth in residential and commercial development. In terms of expansion, Austin is extending north through Round Rock, east to Manor, west to Lakeway and south to Dripping Springs.

Dallas-Fort Worth: A Corporate Magnet

The Dallas-Fort Worth area continues to expand beyond its original status as a banking and financial hub. This area is now a national center for corporate relocations, with major companies such as Westwood Engineering Firm moving their headquarters to Plano, Texas, after 50 years in Minnesota. In a similar manner, Dallas-Fort Worth is attracting large distribution centers, solidifying its reputation as a growing powerhouse in business and industry.

Houston: A Diverse Global Player

Houston is another key contender when it comes to the growth of Texas’ economy. Houston is renowned for its international shipping ports as well as oil and gas refineries. However, it also leads the nation in the production of petrochemical products manufactured in the U.S. These goods are distributed both domestically and globally. Houston’s diverse population and economy attracts foreign government offices and private corporations to establish their headquarters there. 

In addition to its diverse marketplace, Houston also has a sector of industrial manufacturing of hard goods. As a result of its diversity, the city has created many opportunities for trade, investments and growth. In its continued journey of growth, the Houston area continues to expand geographically south through Galveston, west through Katy, north through Conroe and east through Baytown.

San Antonio: A Rising Star

San Antonio, home to EPI’s corporate offices and manufacturing plant, has evolved from its military roots into a dynamic market for auto manufacturing, data centers, industrial distribution, and even digital tech investments. As the population and industries grow, so does the city’s housing market and geographical locations. San Antonio is experiencing rapid growth north of I-10 towards Boerne and New Braunfels, east towards Seguin, south towards Pleasanton, and west out Highway 90 towards Castroville. 

San Antonio’s continued expansion mirrors the growth of EPI, which has transitioned from serving only Texas to operating nationally within the past 5 years from the most viable states in the east—and now internationally in Canada—thanks to our robust product availability and efficient delivery.

In fact, the electrical industry, valued at $237.59 billion in 2023, is projected to increase to $256.65 billion by 2029. With these promising trends, EPI is only going to continue its upward trajectory.

Looking Ahead

Overall, these four major Texas markets have not only stimulated the state’s economy but have also had a positive ripple effect on the national and global economy. As EPI plays a role across various industries, we look forward to 2025 and are excited for what lies ahead. Our commitment to product development goes hand-in-hand with our economic initiatives, ensuring that our products are designed to meet evolving industry standards. With continued growth, Texas will strengthen its position as an economic leader, and EPI will continue to innovate and thrive.