Charlotte County Manufacturing Shines: How Franklin Water Treatment Is Powering a New Era of Growth
December 15th, 2025
Introduction
Charlotte County manufacturing is changing fast – and honestly, it’s changing for the better. For years, people looked at Charlotte County and saw beaches, boating, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. But today? They’re also seeing something else: a region that’s becoming a serious contender in Florida’s advanced manufacturing and distribution landscape.
If you’ve driven through the Punta Gorda Airport Commerce Center lately, you’ve probably noticed something new taking shape. A clean, modern, quietly impressive facility – home to Franklin Water, one of Charlotte County’s newest and most promising success stories.
I remember the first time I heard someone say, “Manufacturing? In Charlotte County?”
And then… they saw the facility.
They saw the talent pipeline.
They saw the investment.
And they got it.
Because the real story here isn’t just that Franklin Water chose Charlotte County.
It’s why they chose it.
And what their presence means for the future of our regional economy.
This article explores that story – the strategic growth, the community impact, and the exciting momentum behind Charlotte County manufacturing right now.
Charlotte County Manufacturing Is Transforming the Region’s Economy
Charlotte County manufacturing is no longer a whisper in economic development circles. It’s becoming one of the region’s most promising engines of growth.
And the evidence is everywhere.
Modern Assembly & Distribution Operations Are Rising
Manufacturers today don’t always look like the heavy factories of the past. Instead, they operate lean assembly lines, precision-based distribution floors, and highly automated logistics hubs. Companies that fit perfectly Franklin Water are for example, a hybrid operation that receives components, assembles systems, and distributes them to professional wholesale channels.
These facilities show how modern industrial operations thrive in Charlotte County: clean, efficient, and designed around today’s work, not yesterday’s.
Why Industrial Growth Is Surging Across Southwest Florida
People assume big industrial growth happens only in mega-metros. But Southwest Florida is rewriting the script.
Growth is accelerating because:
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Companies want logistics advantages without major metro congestion.
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Talent is easier to retain in a region known for safety, affordability, and outdoor living.
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The airport commerce district gives businesses a strategic edge.
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Local government support makes relocation and expansion friction-free.
Manufacturing in Florida has grown nearly 68% in GDP contribution since 2014, making the state one of the fastest-growing manufacturing economies in the country.¹ Charlotte County is part of that momentum.
Franklin Water Treatment: A Charlotte County Manufacturing Success Story
When Franklin Water opened its new Charlotte County facility, it marked more than a ribbon-cutting moment. It marked a turning point. A signal that Charlotte County manufacturing isn’t emerging – it’s accelerating.
During their grand opening tour, attendees saw inventory with modern systems, and staging outbound products for regional shipment.
This isn’t a warehouse.
It’s a strategic hub.
A place where products, people, and logistics meet.
How Franklin’s Expansion Supports Regional Infrastructure
Southwest Florida continues to grow – more homes, more commercial development, more demand for modern infrastructure. Water systems are at the center of that growth.
Franklin Water Charlotte County operation helps:
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Supply critical systems to local contractors
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Shorten delivery times for builders
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Support water professionals
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Strengthen Florida’s water treatment readiness
When you’re building in a region that grows this quickly, having a trusted, local distribution and assembly partner isn’t just helpful – it’s essential.
Why Charlotte County Was the Right Place to Grow
I’ve heard business owners say this a lot:
“When you come to Charlotte County, people actually help you.”
Franklin chose Charlotte County because the location checked every box:
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Proximity to I-75 for trucking
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Access to PGD for air cargo and logistics support
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A growing workforce pipeline
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Supportive local government and EDO staff
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Room to expand long-term
And – something every business appreciates – a community that genuinely wants to see companies thrive.
Why Charlotte County Manufacturing Attracts High-Growth Companies
Charlotte County is no longer a hidden gem. It’s a strategic centerpoint for businesses that want efficiency, safety, and long-term stability.
Infrastructure Advantages: PGD, I-75, and Logistics Assets
Few places combine these advantages:
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Direct access to I-75
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Adjacent to Punta Gorda Airport (PGD)
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New industrial parks opening around the Airport Commerce Center
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Clear trucking routes without urban congestion
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Midpoint location between Tampa, Naples, and Miami markets
Companies like Franklin Water Treatment see Charlotte County as a logistics sweet spot – a place where delivery routes shrink and productivity expands.
A Strong Workforce Pipeline Ready for Advanced Industries
Charlotte County has strengthened workforce partnerships with:
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Charlotte Technical College
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CareerSource Southwest Florida
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Regional school districts
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Statewide workforce initiatives
Programs in HVAC, water systems, engineering support, and industrial tech align directly with companies like Franklin Water. Young workers see real careers here – not just jobs.
And that matters.
Because manufacturing succeeds where talent wants to live.
A Business Climate Built for Expansion
Companies repeatedly report the same three things:
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Fewer barriers
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Faster approvals
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Real relationships with local officials
Charlotte County has built a reputation as a place where businesses can launch quickly and operate without unnecessary red tape.
That’s exactly why Franklin Water – a global brand with high standards – selected this location.
The Economic Impact of Charlotte County Manufacturing
Manufacturing doesn’t just create jobs.
It creates ripple effects.
How Expansion Generates Jobs & Local Investment
Franklin Water facility brings:
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New full-time positions
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Contracting opportunities
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Vendor partnerships
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Training programs
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Future career pathways for students
Every time a company like Franklin expands operations, the local economy strengthens. Construction firms, tradespeople, supply vendors, logistics providers, and dozens of related sectors benefit.
Suddenly, a product that once shipped from across the state now arrives locally – faster and cheaper. That improves outcomes for builders, homeowners, and municipal partners.
The Future of Industrial Growth in Charlotte County
More industrial projects are underway across the Enterprise Charlotte Airport Park. New buildings, new tenants, and new jobs will continue pushing Charlotte County manufacturing forward.
Franklin Water is one chapter in a much bigger story – one where Charlotte County becomes known as a serious, stable player in Florida’s industrial landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions About Charlotte County Manufacturing
Why is Charlotte County manufacturing growing?
Because companies want a location that blends logistics access, a supportive business climate, and a strong workforce – without big-city barriers.
What industries are strongest in the county?
Distribution, assembly, aviation support, composites, industrial trades, and now water treatment systems.
Why did Franklin Water choose Charlotte County?
Because the airport commerce district offers unmatched logistics advantages, workforce access, and room to expand long-term.
Does manufacturing create high-paying jobs in the region?
Yes. Manufacturing jobs typically offer strong wages, benefits, and upward mobility.
How does PGD support local industry?
PGD serves as a logistics hub, helping companies ship products efficiently and receive materials quickly.
What’s next for the Charlotte County manufacturing sector?
More industrial development, more expansion projects, and more companies discovering the advantages of operating in this region.
Conclusion: Charlotte County Manufacturing Is Stronger Than Ever
When Franklin Water opened its new facility, it didn’t just create jobs.
It created confidence.
Confidence that Charlotte County manufacturing is entering a new era; confidence that companies can relocate here and thrive; confidence that this region can compete – and win – in Florida’s growing industrial economy.
Manufacturing has always been about building things.
Now?
It’s about building the future of Charlotte County.
And with companies like Franklin Water leading the way, that future looks bright.
Sources:
Florida Chamber Foundation, Florida Manufacturing GDP & Employment Data
https://www.flchamber.com
Business Observer, Manufacturing Data
https://www.businessobserverfl.com/news/2024/apr/15/florida-manufacturing-booming/
