OUR ECONOMY Henderson County is home to about 140 manufacturing facilities.
The Perfect Climate For Growing Businesses With its diverse economic sectors, strong workforce and entrepreneurial spirit, Henderson County is not only a place where retirees enjoy the fruits of their labor but also where new businesses take root and well established industries thrive. As with many rural areas, the education and healthcare sectors are top employers. Independent stores in bustling downtown Hendersonville and throughout the county make the retail sector robust. Retiree wealth helps bring strength to the financial and professional services sector and agriculture, manufacturing and tourism remain cornerstones of Henderson County’s economy.
AGRICULTURE Since William Mills planted his first apple tree in the Fruitland area of Henderson County at the end of the 18th century, agriculture has been a staple of Henderson County’s economy. Apples are still king here with the county being ranked first in apple production in all of North 128
Carolina, growing up to 80% of the state’s entire apple crop on more than 150 orchards in Henderson County. Having that many apples to manage also has spawned other related ventures such as packing houses, traditional and hard cider producers and many roadside stands. For a directory of local apple outlets, orchard trail guides and information about tours, visit NCApples.com. But apples are not the only things growing in Henderson Count y. Berry production is increasing in the county and the area is becoming known for grape production for wine. In addition, local farms produce a wide variety of field crops and nursery and sod crops, as well as beef cattle and other livestock.
In recent years, “agri-tourism” has added to this sector’s bottom line. Farmers markets, “u-pick” operations, hayrides, farm tours and tasting rooms can all be found in Henderson County. With the popularit y of locally grown foods, agri-tourism and craft beverages, agriculture here has become even more significant. Today, 557 farms with nearly 38,000 acres operate within the county. Agribusiness in Henderson County employs more than 8,150 people and brings in annual receipts of $400 million. To help ensure that agriculture remains a growing sector in the local economy, Agribusiness Henderson County assists new and existing continued on page 130 Hendersonville Magazine 2021–2022
