Highlights from the Site Selectors Guild 2025 Annual Conference and the Impact on the Economic Development Industry 

Each year, the Site Selectors Guild Annual Conference brings together industry leaders to discuss the latest trends and challenges in corporate location strategy. The 2025 event was packed with insightful sessions, engaging panel discussions and thought-provoking predictions for the future. Read on for key highlights. 

Looking Forward: Pending Policy Changes Shaping Location Strategy 

Adaptability is important in any industry, now more than ever.  Ford Graham, Joannah Hollis, Sahar Hafeez, Michelle Comerford and Dennis Meseroll engaged in a lively discussion about the three t’s – tariffs, talent and taxes – and how pending policy changes could reshape corporate location strategy. 

Tariffs: A Double-Edged Sword 

Up first, tariffs. The panel explored the complexities of tariffs, defined as a tax paid at the port of entry, adding extra cost to imported goods. Hafeez noted that tariffs were seen as protections for industries during the first Trump administration, focusing on Chinese business practices. The Biden administration retained these tariffs but reviewed which sectors would benefit the most. Recent tariffs on Mexico and Canada were highlighted as a stretch of legal authority, causing market volatility. Meseroll shared insights on tariffs being used for industrial investment in Southeast Asia, while Hollis emphasized focusing on data, which doesn’t always align with the proposed reasoning for tariffs.  

Taxes: Navigating the Changing Landscape 

The discussion on taxes highlighted evolving tax policies and their impact on corporate location strategy. Panelists explored how changes in tax regulations could influence business decisions, particularly in terms of investment and expansion. They emphasized the need for companies to stay informed about tax policy changes and work closely with tax advisors. The potential benefits of tax incentives and credits for businesses looking to invest in specific regions or industries were also discussed, highlighting how these incentives could drive economic growth and development. 

Talent: The Key to Success 

Last, but certainly not least, the conversation on talent attraction focused on the critical role of workforce development in shaping corporate location strategy. Panelists discussed challenges and opportunities stemming from workforce dynamics, immigration policies and technological advancements. They highlighted the importance of education and reskilling initiatives to align with evolving industry needs. Finally, they emphasized the need for companies to invest in their employees’ skills and create a supportive work environment that fosters growth and innovation. 

Battling NIMBYism: Strategies for Success 

Gray Swoope, Andy Shapiro and Monty Turner led a breakout session on battling NIMBYism, which stands for “Not in My Backyard.” NIMBYism refers to residents’ opposition to local developments due to concerns over potential negative impacts like increased traffic, environmental degradation or changes to the community’s character.  

The panel discussed geopolitical, political and environmental reasons for NIMBYism and emphasized the importance of transparency and community engagement. They suggested that making project details public and involving local stakeholders early can build trust and mitigate opposition. 

Workforce Ready: Trends and Tactics in Workforce Development 

Gregg Wassmansdorf, Rajeev Thakur, Sydney August and Jason Hickey a session on workforce development trends and tactics. The session focused on the Fourth Industrial Revolution, driven by disruptive technologies like AI, VR and blockchain, which are transforming job roles and requiring advanced cognitive and social-emotional skills. 

To address these challenges, the panelists suggested several action items, such as monitoring party votes and potential immigration policy changes by mid-April to assess the impact on the workforce, evaluating the risk associated with limited foreign worker access in specific counties and assessing the impact of potential loss of undocumented workers in the manufacturing sector. Implementing low-cost technology adoption solutions for remote collaboration and digital performance management can help companies adapt to new norms.  

The Crystal Ball: Trends Impacting Site Selection in the Next Three Years 

The conference concluded with a session on trends impacting site selection in the next three years. DCI Chairman Andy Levine moderated a panel with Mike Mullis, Courtney Dunbar, Jay Garner and Jan Desmaretz as they shared their top predictions for the future. 

Renewable Energy 

Jay Garner discussed the future of renewables, predicting that natural gas will be the fastest-growing source of energy in the US over the next three years. He explained that long-time aversions to fossil fuels are due to their history of being expensive to do business with, especially in the EU/UK. Despite promises from many companies, coal-generation won’t be removed. 

Shifting to a Regional Focus 

Jan Desmaretz emphasized the shift from global to regional perspectives, suggesting that companies will adopt a multi-tiered approach in their global strategy, focusing on regional markets to tailor products and services to local needs. This approach involves preparing for regional hubs, market-specific products and smaller sites. Desmaretz highlighted the importance of consumer envy as the ultimate peacemaker, driven by product availability and access. 

An Evolving Federal Reserve 

Mike Mullis predicted changes in the Federal Reserve System’s executive management and streamlined policies by 2028, due to upcoming appointments and shifts in policy direction. He explained that the system was created in 1913 with three key objectives for the Fed’s Monetary Policy: maximize employment, stabilize prices and moderate long-term interest rates. Mullis suggested that the current administration aims to enhance oversight of financial institutions to ensure stability and accountability, promoting a balanced budget approach. 

EV Battery Production 

Courtney Dunbar discussed the growth of EV battery production in the U.S., predicting that American battery manufacturing will grow at least 33% by 2028. This growth will be driven by the need to support renewable energy sources and manage their intermittency. Government subsidies and investments in US production will play a role in this growth, focusing on technologies that support energy storage solutions. Dunbar highlighted the risks of renewables, including grid instability and energy wastage and emphasized the connection between national security and energy storage. 

As the global economy continues to evolve, these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the strategies of businesses and policymakers alike. Contact DCI’s Senior Vice President of Research Robyn Domber at robyn.domber@aboutdci.com to discuss more trends in corporate location decisions and how your EDO can stay ahead of the curve.