BOWLING GREEN, KY. – August 13, 2025 – South Central Kentucky proudly celebrates a major milestone as Magna, one of the world’s largest and most reliable automotive suppliers, marks 20 years of operations in Bowling Green. Since establishing its presence in 2005, Magna has become a cornerstone of the region’s advanced manufacturing community—creating high-quality jobs, driving innovation, and strengthening the local economy.
Magna’s Bowling Green facility, which specializes in automotive structural systems, has grown to employ over 1,400 people and serves major OEM customers throughout North America. The facility has continued to expand its capabilities over the years through new investments in automation, lean manufacturing, and workforce development.
"Twenty years ago, we chose Bowling Green as a place to grow our operations and it has been an incredible journey shaped by the people and support of this community," said John Oliver, General Manager at MAGNA Bowling Green. "Today, we’re proud to celebrate not just our longevity, but the incredible relationships we’ve built here. Our success is deeply rooted in the talent of our workforce and the support of local and state leadership.”
Magna’s presence has helped shape Warren County into a nationally recognized hub for automotive manufacturing and reinforced the region’s position along the I-65 Automotive Corridor.
Warren County Judge-Executive Doug Gorman shared, “Magna has been a key contributor to the strength of our manufacturing economy for two decades. Their continued investment in people and technology has elevated our region and supported thousands of families across South Central Kentucky.”
Bowling Green Mayor Todd Alcott added, "MAGNA is at the heart of Bowling Green Americana, with 1,500 incredible local employees building chassis for Ford vehicles like the F-150's Trucks, Escape SUVs, Grand Wagoneer, and more. MAGNA has become a seamless thread of our community's fabric — congratulations and thank you for a wonderful 20 years.”
The company’s anniversary celebration included an employee appreciation cookout event and recognition from local partners for the company’s ongoing contributions.
Ron Bunch, President & CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, noted, “Magna’s 20-year commitment to Bowling Green reflects the strength of our regional business environment. Their growth and success are a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines South Central Kentucky.”
As the company looks toward the future, Magna remains focused on continuing to lead in automotive innovation while deepening its community roots in Bowling Green.
Year to date, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has announced three economic development projects in South Central Kentucky, totaling $39.4 million in capital investment and creating 122 new jobs across the region.
Bowling Green continues to gain national recognition, ranked the #1 Tier 2 Metro in the United States for 2024 and 2023 and among the Top 6 Tier 2 Metros for 13 consecutive years by Site Selection Magazine.
The Chamber has also been honored with the prestigious Mac Conway Award, recognizing it as one of the Top 20 Economic Development Organizations in the country for the 4th time in 5 years.
About South Central Kentucky Economic Development:
South Central Kentucky Economic Development is an entity of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, a nationally ranked 5-Star Accredited Chamber. Located at the center of a 34-state distribution area in the eastern United States, South Central Kentucky is a prime location for manufacturing, distribution, and emerging technology businesses. South Central Kentucky is within a day’s drive of 60% of the nation's population, personal income, and manufacturing businesses. Bowling Green ranks second in the United States for best manufacturing city. The Bowling Green/Warren County region has captured over six billion in capital investment in the past decade, with those companies creating more than twelve thousand new jobs. To learn more, please visit https://www.southcentralky.com/