Plant Revival in Arkansas

Cantex plans to invest in former Husqvarna facility in a different Nashville

Cantex, Inc., a Fort Worth-based manufacturer of American-made electrical conduit, fittings, and boxes, announced plans July 31 to invest $120 million to locate a new facility in Nashville, Arkansas. The new facility is expected to create 110 new jobs over one year--music to the ears of Arkansas residents, especially those in the humbler Nashville.

Dave Merker, President at Cantex, expressed enthusiasm about the facility, saying: “We are excited to expand our footprint in Nashville, Arkansas. This property will enable us to better serve our customers and support our long-term growth strategy. We look forward to integrating this new manufacturing facility into our operations and leveraging its potential to drive innovation and excellence. We’re also thrilled to work alongside the State of Arkansas and the City of Nashville as we invest in the region’s future and create new opportunities together.”

Cantex has acquired an existing manufacturing facility, formerly operated by Husqvarna, located at 630 Highway 27 Bypass in Nashville. The company says it plans to invest in new equipment and make significant upgrades to the facility in order to support the production of electrical products.

Since the mid-1950s, Cantex has been involved in electrical product manufacturing. Today, the company is considered a prominent provider in the industry, offering a comprehensive range of electrical conduit and fittings, elbows, and non-metallic switch, outlet, and ceiling boxes. Its products serve a broad spectrum of electrical distributors, contractors, and end users across the country.

“Arkansas is open for business, and companies like Cantex recognize the strength of our workforce and the support of our local communities,” said Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. “This is exactly the kind of opportunity we’re working to bring to every corner of our state—building engines of growth and creating new jobs for hardworking Arkansans. Thank you, Cantex for your $120 million investment in South Arkansas.”

This is Cantex’s first manufacturing facility in Arkansas. The company plans to start its Nashville operations in Q4 2025.

Cantex will be hiring for a range of positions, including manufacturing and distribution operators. To learn more and to apply for positions, visit www.cantexinc.com/careers.