Houston has a scored a major win in the global manufacturing and technology race. Apple announced plans to open an advanced manufacturing facility in the Houston region. Part of a $500 billion national investment, the new 250,000-square-foot facility will bring AI-driven manufacturing to Houston, reshoring critical operations from overseas. 

The facility, set to open in 2026, will focus on the production of servers that support Apple Intelligence, the tech giant’s AI software system. By relocating this key manufacturing process from abroad to the U.S., Apple is making a strong statement about Houston's role in the future of American high-tech manufacturing. 

A Booming Manufacturing Hub 

According to the Greater Houston Partnership, Houston is home to over 7,000 manufacturers, producing more than $75.1 billion in goods annually. Houston ranks as the second top U.S. metro for manufacturing GDP, solidifying its reputation as a leader in industrial production. 

“This is a testament to our region’s business-friendly environment, skilled workforce, strategic global positioning, and proven ability to attract world-class companies,” said Greater Houston Partnership President and CEO Steve Kean. “As U.S. companies continue to onshore their manufacturing operations, we are bullish on Houston’s ability to win big.” 

Economic Impact and Growth Potential 

Apple’s decision to expand in Houston is expected to have a ripple effect throughout the local economy. While some details of the project remain confidential, Apple said in a press release the Houston facility "will create thousands of jobs." Additionally, the facility will support local suppliers and drive further investment in AI-driven manufacturing. 

Building Strategic Partnerships 

The Apple announcement is an expansion of a multi-building manufacturing complex managed by Foxconn in northwest Harris County, which produces high-tech components for numerous global technology companies, including Apple. Foxconn’s parent company, Taiwan-based Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., announced in November that it was expanding its Houston presence by acquiring land and a facility to enhance its artificial intelligence server production in the U.S. That specific expansion project is expected to create 300 jobs with $225 million in capital investment. 

The Partnership has been cultivating a relationship with Foxconn over the past several years. This includes an in-person visit with the company in Taiwan during last year’s economic development mission with Governor Greg Abbott. This type of strategic relationship-building continues to be a key driver in attracting world-class companies to the region. 

As more companies seek to strengthen their supply chains and expand AI-driven production, Houston is poised to lead the next wave of industrial innovation.  

Learn more about Houston’s manufacturing industry.