Cullman has been named one of the most successful cities in the state for industrial growth, beating out several larger counties and metro areas.

The area ranks 1st in number of new and expanding industries and number of expanding industries, according to the Alabama Department of Commerce's 2014 new and expanding industry report. Cullman ranks 2nd in new industry capital investment, 3rd in number of new industries and 5th in job creation (704 total jobs) for the year.

"This is amazing, but the emphasis really goes back to the industries we have and what they do. They're why we are so strong and productive," Cullman Economic Development Agency Director Peggy Smith said. "It's also a compliment to the entire community, because companies that are expanding consider all those things, like quality of life, and the quality of the workforce. Every piece of that plays a role, and companies always have options to relocate. That's the reason we have to stay focused on helping our existing industries expand and grow by providing services they need."