Nestled along Louisiana’s Gulf Coast, St. Mary Parish is an overlooked gem just waiting to be discovered.
With its small-town charm, business-friendly environment, and access to major transportation routes, this parish has all the ingredients necessary for business owners looking to get started or expand their business operations.
Here are five compelling reasons why St. Mary Parish is the perfect place to start or grow your business.
5 Reasons Why St. Mary Parish is Your Ideal Business Destination
Low Taxes
First and foremost, the tax structure here is incredibly business-friendly. The local government recognizes that lower taxes allow companies to thrive, so taxes such as sales taxes and property taxes are all quite reasonable compared to larger cities.
These savings mean more money that can be reinvested into things like new equipment, expanded facilities, and better benefits for employees. The extra capital goes a long way in setting up your business for success.
Low Utility Rates
Another major perk is the low utility rates. For any business relying on substantial energy consumption like manufacturing plants, affordable and reliable utility access is a must.
The competitive rates found here give companies an advantage over those doing business in areas with pricier electric and water bills.
Competitive Wages
St. Mary Parish also offers competitive wages, making it an ideal place to do business. These competitive wages help companies attract and retain skilled talent.
Workers are more likely to join and stay with businesses that pay fair market rates.
Additionally, the higher wages translate into greater consumer purchasing power as workers have more disposable income.
When workers earn good pay, it also translates into greater consumer spending power as locals have extra cash to frequent shops and restaurants.
Robust Incentives
And don’t forget the incentives! Between local and state programs, there are numerous tax breaks and other advantages available to new or expanding businesses in St. Mary Parish.
With so many options, you’re sure to find savings to help get your company off the ground. Our staff at St. Mary Parish Economic Development can help you identify which incentives best fit your needs for doing business here and help guide you through the incentive process on both local and state levels.
Accessibility
Location is another huge advantage worth highlighting. St. Mary Parish’s strategic positioning places it in close proximity to vital markets and major distribution channels, encompassing efficient airports, bustling seaports, and well-developed road networks.
It sits along the Gulf Coast, home to the bustling Port of Morgan City and Port of St. Mary. These ports offer direct maritime access and simplified import/export processes, which are both huge benefits for any company involved in manufacturing or shipping.
The parish’s central position between the bustling metropolitan hubs of New Orleans, Lafayette, and Baton Rouge further accentuates its accessibility.
This geographical advantage not only enhances supply chain efficiency but also reduces operational costs, as businesses can seamlessly tap into key transportation routes, optimize logistics, and engage with various markets, thus propelling growth and success.
The regional airports also connect locally-based businesses to clients and partners worldwide.
Read also: Starting a Business in St. Mary: How to Choose a Business Structure
In conclusion, St. Mary Parish offers a winning combination of small-town hospitality and big-city opportunities, which makes it a great choice for businesses of all types and sizes.
The business climate allows companies to minimize business expenses while leveraging proximity to major transportation hubs. When you add in our rich culture and natural beauty, it’s easy to see why so many companies choose to call this parish home.
Local leaders like us at St. Mary Parish Economic Development (SMED) actively work to help businesses open and expand. SMED provides invaluable support to entrepreneurs through services such as site selection assistance, market research, and guidance on local and state incentives.
We can make the process of starting or growing a business smooth and efficient. Our staff is always happy to chat more about how SMED can support your entrepreneurial dreams and help your business thrive for years to come in St. Mary Parish, Louisiana. Contact us today!