Troy Industries becomes the latest firearm company to announce a corporate move, leaving anti-gun states for more friendly, pro-gun governments. Troy recently announced the company will relocate to Clarksville, Tennessee. The Troy Industries relocation, a five-year, $7.2-million investment, begins in June.
Troy Industries Relocation to Tennessee
Troy leaves West Springfield, Mass., the latest company to flee the area once considered the cradle of American gunmaking. We’re talking Gun Valley, once where America made nearly all its guns. Gun makers quite literally built these local communities, ushering in the industrial age. Now the locals seem to spew only hate towards gun manufacturers.
Compared to those older, historic companies like Smith & Wesson, Troy Industries measures much younger. Founded by Steve Troy, Jr., it nevertheless became a major supplier of OEM accessories. Now Troy projects sending up to 75 jobs in the Tennessee area of Montgomery County, yet another big win for the Volunteer State.
“I appreciate Troy for choosing to relocate to Tennessee and am proud to partner with this world-renowned firearms manufacturer, said Gov. Bill Lee. “When companies pick Tennessee to locate or expand their operations, it is a vote of confidence to our state’s business-friendly climate and skilled workforce. I thank Troy for this investment and the creation of new jobs for Tennesseans.”
“I’m pleased to welcome TROY Industries to Tennessee’s 7th District. For 17 years, TROY has been a leader in the firearm accessory industry,” added U.S. Rep. Mark Green. “Our welcoming business climate provides the perfect place for businesses to flourish without fear of crushing over-regulation and high taxes. I’m glad to have helped recruit TROY to bring their operations and company headquarters to Clarksville, and I look forward to watching the company’s impact creating jobs and growth in our community in the months and years ahead.”
A Growing Trend
The Troy Industries relocation marks a growing trend. Troy joins Beretta, which relocated its manufacturing and headquarters to Gallatin in 2015. Increasing gun control by Maryland leaders prompted the move. Elsewhere, other pro-gun states continue to clean up. Kimber moved to Alabama to avoid New York laws. The Remington Outdoor Company likewise moved to Huntsivlle prior to its breakup.
Les Bear and LMT both moved across state lines from Illinios into Iowa. North Carolina scored a Ruger expansion. Meanwhile, Mossberg chose Texas when it expanded in 2013. Finally, over the last few years, Wyoming has been cleaning up. The state landed Magpul, Weatherby, HiViz, and Stag Arms. The message becomes resoundingly clear: pro-gun states will get our big business.
“While Troy has enjoyed a very successful period of growth in Massachusetts, the changing climate for firearms manufacturers in the state determined the need for our relocation to Tennessee to ensure the continued success of the company,” Steve Troy said. “We are excited to begin this new venture and appreciate all the support we have already received from Rep. Mark Green, Gov. Bill Lee and the state of Tennessee in making this relocation possible.”
