One of North Carolina’s most respected manufacturers has made a decision that reaches far beyond its own future.

Grady-White Boats announced this week that owner Eddie Smith is transferring ownership of the Greenville-based company to a perpetual purpose trust, ensuring the company will remain rooted in the values that have defined it for decades: investing in employees, delivering exceptional quality, supporting customers and dealers, and giving back to the community.

The announcement follows Smith’s decision to turn down reported offers exceeding $400 million in favor of a succession plan designed to preserve the company’s culture and long-term mission.

For the NC Chamber, North Carolina’s affiliate for the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the announcement is more than a milestone for one company. It’s a powerful reminder of what has long made North Carolina manufacturing exceptional.

Manufacturing is built on more than production lines and capital investment. The strongest manufacturers understand that investing in people and communities is how great businesses are built.

Grady-White has exemplified those values for decades.

From its Greenville headquarters, the company has grown into one of the most respected premium boat manufacturers in the world while earning an unmatched reputation for customer satisfaction and quality. Just as importantly, the company has built a culture centered on its employees and its community.

That commitment was on full display as part of this transition. Alongside the announcement, Grady-White recognized its employees with millions of dollars in appreciation bonuses, honoring the people who helped build the company’s success and reaffirming its commitment to their future.

As North Carolina continues to attract manufacturing investment from around the world, stories like Grady-White’s serve as an important reminder that our competitive advantage isn’t measured only in rankings or economic data. It’s also measured by the values of the companies that choose to build, grow, and lead here.

The NC Chamber congratulates Eddie Smith, President Kris Carroll, and the entire Grady-White team on this historic transition and their continued commitment to employees, customers, and communities across North Carolina.

Read Grady-White’s full announcement to learn more about the company’s transition and future plans.