GE Appliances on Thursday celebrated a $28 million investment at its Morgan County refrigeration plant, unveiling upgraded manufacturing equipment and a new on-site primary care clinic during a ribbon-cutting ceremony with state and local leaders.
The investment reinforces the company’s long-standing presence in Decatur and expands both production capacity and employee-focused amenities at what is the largest refrigeration manufacturing operation in the United States.
A significant portion of the funding supports new, highly automated thermoforming machines used to produce interior liners for refrigerator compartments.
The upgrades are expected to improve efficiency and increase output across multiple models, supporting the plant’s three-shift operation. Additional improvements include upgraded lighting and new commercial air-conditioning units aimed at enhancing working conditions.
Company leaders said the investment is part of a broader $3 billion initiative to expand U.S. manufacturing over five years.
“Investing in advanced manufacturing and employee health is a winning combination that strengthens our business,” said Rocki Rockingham, chief human resources officer at GE Appliances. “How we show up matters. At GE Appliances, we are creating appliances our consumers love in an environment where our employees can do their best work and build lasting careers.”
Alongside the manufacturing upgrades, officials also highlighted the opening of a new on-site primary care clinic for employees and their families. Operated by CareATC, the clinic offers free services to workers enrolled in the company health plan, including preventive care, chronic condition management, mental health services and routine lab work.
“At GE Appliances, investing in the health of our people is investing in the success of our business,” said Michele Clark, senior health services manager at GE Appliances. “This new clinic gives employees access high-quality primary care that fits into their everyday lives.”
The Decatur facility joins three other GE Appliances manufacturing sites nationwide with similar on-site clinics. Company data shows increased use of primary care services and a reduction in avoidable emergency room visits among employees utilizing the program.
GE Appliances Decatur plant has operated in the community since 1977 and employs approximately 1,600 people statewide. The site produces top-freezer refrigerators, one of the most common models found in American homes.
Local officials said the investment strengthens the region’s manufacturing base and workforce.
GE Appliances contributes more than $2.1 billion annually to Alabama’s gross domestic product and supports thousands of additional jobs through its supply chain and operations, according to the company.
The latest upgrades, leaders said, position the Decatur plant to remain a key part of that economic impact while advancing domestic production capabilities.
