When it comes to manufacturing industrial wire and cable materials, five states stand out as industry leaders: Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Texas, and California. These states not only house some of the most advanced production facilities, but they’re also home to several of the top companies shaping the future of wire and cable manufacturing.
Why These States Lead in Wire and Cable Manufacturing
Each of these states offers a strategic mix of skilled labor, access to transportation networks, and a strong industrial base, making them hubs for wire and cable production. For safety managers and plant operators, understanding where critical components like industrial cables come from is essential for supply chain reliability and machine safety planning.
Here’s a breakdown of the top five:
1. Illinois
Illinois boasts a robust manufacturing sector, particularly around Chicago. With a strong logistics infrastructure, it's a key distribution point for wire and cable products nationwide.
2. Michigan
Traditionally known for its automotive industry, Michigan has also developed a strong electrical manufacturing base, supporting wire and cable innovations used in factory automation and smart manufacturing.
3. Ohio
Ohio combines affordability and accessibility. Its central location and industrial-friendly environment make it ideal for producing heavy-duty industrial cable used in machinery and plant operations.
4. Texas
Home to Encore Wire, Texas is a powerhouse in electrical wire and cable production. The state’s business-friendly policies and energy-driven economy make it an ideal place for large-scale manufacturing.
5. California
As a tech and innovation hub, California’s wire and cable manufacturing supports industries ranging from aerospace to high-speed data. Companies like Leviton and Samtec maintain a strong presence here, pushing the envelope on high-performance cable design.
Major Players Driving Industry Growth
Some of the top wire and cable manufacturers have headquarters or major operations in these states, including:
Encore Wire (Texas)
Southwire (Georgia, with major distribution in the Midwest)
Sumitomo Electric (Multiple U.S. locations)
Samtec (California and Indiana)
Leviton (California and New York)
These companies are leading the way in safety-focused innovations—offering fire-resistant, low-smoke, and durable wire solutions essential for machine guarding and industrial automation.
What This Means for Safety Managers
Understanding where your components come from—and who’s making them—can help you make smarter, safer procurement decisions. Whether you’re upgrading a production line or planning preventive maintenance, knowing the landscape of industrial cable manufacturing helps ensure you're sourcing from reliable, safety-conscious manufacturers.
Conclusion
The states of Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Texas, and California aren’t just manufacturing powerhouses—they’re critical partners in keeping your plant running safely and efficiently. As the wire and cable industry continues to evolve, staying informed on the key players and production hubs will give your safety and operations team a strategic advantage.
To listen to the video on this Top 5 Wire and Cable Manufacturing blog
