“Southern Illinois University Carbondale is an economic engine and valuable partner in the region. The area is home to nearly 40,000 proud alumni, enthusiastic to apply what they learned on campus to help advance the region. As a major source of innovative solutions, research, and creative thinking, SIUC is proud to serve Southern Illinois.”

“Southern Illinois is a “hidden gem” as a place to locate your business or home! Located within the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers, Southern Illinois has been compared to the Fertile Crescent of Egypt. The Shawnee National Forest and its many incredible rock formations and vistas place outdoor adventures right in your backyard. The quality of life and cost of living are as good as it gets and with the intersection of major transportation corridors, Southern Illinois is efficiently linked to St Louis, Chicago, Indianapolis and Nashville.”

“Access to Southern Illinois’ many resources, including top notch business training and support organizations like Man-Tra-Con and the Delta Regional Authority, have furthered Pepsi MidAmerica’s success. Additionally, Southern Illinois University and our local community colleges provide outstanding technology training, CDL training, and other career development courses that have equipped our employees with the skills they need to be successful. We also maintain a strong relationship with the City of Marion which has supported our business growth.

Southern Illinois is centrally located near several major Midwestern cities and has excellent roads for transportation which makes it an ideal location for our business.”