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The Eastern Region is becoming an international attraction.

A significant number of international firms have major operations here in North Carolina's Eastern Region. Among them are Bosch and Siemens Home Appliances, Kaba Ilco Corp., Bridgestone/Firestone, pharmaceutical giant Merck and Electrolux Home Products. They're here and more join them every year for many of the same reasons U.S. - based companies choose the Eastern Region: great transportation, skilled and diversified workforce, solid educational infrastructure, proximity to the Research Triangle Park, low costs and a decidedly pro-business climate. And of course, they come for the lifestyle advantages too.

There are other factors as well. For instance, an airport that can accommodate the world's largest cargo jets; its runway, at 11,500 feet or a little over two miles, is not only the longest commercial runway in North Carolina, it's the longest between Washington and Atlanta. There are also a variety of tax incentives and specialized training programs that benefit international firms. In addition, there are two Foreign Free Trade Zones within the Eastern Region to further help in growing businesses here.

International firms benefit from the great number of former military people in the Region—many in the workforce have experience overseas and/or a second language, which can lead to better communication and greater productivity.

It all adds up to a combination that's proven both attractive and profitable for a growing number of international firms.