The consumer packaged goods industry has a story to tell that extends beyond even our massive economic footprint, underscored by the industry’s continued investments in domestic manufacturing — from factories being built in new cities, creating jobs and supporting communities across the country, to scaling their products to meet shifting consumer demand and getting out ahead of what consumers want — all while maintaining an unyielding commitment to safe, affordable and accessible food, beverage, household and personal care products.

The makers of the products Americans rely on every day are so much more than what we see on grocery store shelves. Every step of the way, the people across the country who keep the industry moving at the speed of the consumer are the story and the pulse of the industry.

It’s not just grand conjecture, either — the CPG industry is the largest domestic manufacturing sector by employment. Our industry supports 22.3 million jobs, which is almost three times the population of New York City and contributes $2.5 trillion — or nearly 10% — to the U.S. economy, which is more than Canada’s 2023 total gross domestic product (GDP).

Moreover, this is an industry whose impact has a ripple effect across others, bolstering and supporting other key sectors, including wholesale and retail trade, transportation and warehousing, agriculture, forestry and fishing, manufacturing, construction, services and even real estate and finance.

Over the past five years, the CPG industry has demonstrated impressive wage growth, with a 30% increase in direct industry wages over that time. This growth is not only reflective of the industry’s investment in its employees but also the focus on attracting and retaining top talent. Furthermore, the industry’s commitment to fair compensation reflects a dedication to supporting the livelihoods of our workforce.

The breadth of our economic contributions positions the CPG industry as a unifying force within the American economic landscape, supporting diverse roles — from scientists ensuring product safety to farmers cultivating raw materials and truckers delivering goods — showcasing our collective impact on the economy.

From significant poultry production in Western Arkansas and Northeast Georgia to the heart of wheat, corn and soybean country spanning districts across Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska and Minnesota, so much of what America produces is made right here. And considering the sheer number of jobs the industry supports; it is also important to underscore that those aren’t limited in scope.

And as we look toward the future, it becomes clear that these well-paying, domestic jobs reinforce the need for federal and state policies that facilitate job creation, spur modernization and continue to build consumer trust as the industry stays the course in its dedication to its essential role in bolstering the national economy.