Due diligence or dealbreaker? Site-readiness lessons from the field

Speed to market has become one of the most important competitive advantages in manufacturing. But no matter how fast a company wants to start up or relocate their manufacturing operations, the process still hinges on this reality: a site cannot be selected until it’s proven viable and meets project needs. That is where due diligence either accelerates the project towards groundbreaking or becomes the reason it stalls.

Site-readiness is not just a checklist for compliance; it is an essential filter that determines whether a manufacturing site makes it past the first round of elimination in a sea of options. Companies don’t need a proven unicorn site that checks all the boxes at first pass, but without confidence in key criteria, timeline and site-specific due diligence materials, it will not make the cut into a second round of review. Here are some findings based on first-hand observations we have seen from the field.

Site information fundamentals

Updated Phase I Environmental Site Assessments, topographic surveys, geotechnical studies and utility infrastructure maps remain the foundation of the site selection process. Knowing where electric, water, wastewater and gas lines are—and their available capacities—is essential. If this information is not current, accessible and easy to share, it is nearly impossible to justify further evaluation. Stakeholders expect clarity, not outdated links or information buried in emails.

Environmental constraints like floodplains and wetlands are common red flags. A site can still be viable with these challenges, but only if mitigation strategies are clearly illustrated. A general arrangement diagram showing buildable areas, setbacks and mitigation paths can keep a site in play. Without it, decision-makers often move on.

Certainty and clarity drive progress

Manufacturers want clear information—not vague answers about timelines, permits, easements or costs. Specifically, they want to know:

• When and how utility and infrastructure improvements will be delivered.
• What level of investment is required to support the improvements or project overall.
• How much funding is already secured, and what portion may qualify for grants or other incentives.

Public funding sources for roads, sewer, water, gas or electric upgrades can significantly improve a site’s business case. But these opportunities must be communicated early with specifics of how they can reduce capital outlay and accelerate the timeline. If they are not factored into initial comparisons, they cannot influence the decision.