West Virginia’s economy has always been built on making the most of what we have. Our natural resources have powered industries, built up local economies, and sustained communities for generations. That is still true today and cannot be taken for granted.

Manufacturing in America is under pressure. Companies are facing rising costs, supply chain uncertainty, and increasing competition from overseas.

Founded in 1949, Marble King has proudly been producing glass marbles in West Virginia for generations. Today, we are the last remaining marble manufacturer in the United States. Rooted in every part of our operations is the greater purpose of preserving a uniquely American craft, supporting local jobs, and continuing a legacy of manufacturing that has largely disappeared elsewhere.

Local businesses, including ours, have always been powered by West Virginia’s advantageous natural resources. At Marble King, glassmaking is an energy-intensive process. Our furnaces run continuously and operate at extremely high temperatures.

That’s why natural gas matters.

Natural gas provides the kind of dependable, always-available energy that manufacturers require. Unlike other fuel sources, it can be quickly dispatched when needed, ensuring operations remain steady and predictable. In an industry where consistency is everything, that reliability is a necessity.

West Virginia is uniquely positioned in that regard. We sit atop the largest U.S. gas-producing basin and are the nation’s fifth largest natural gas producer. Our natural resource advantage means businesses can be confident that energy stability won’t be a problem when they decide to operate, grow, and invest in West Virginia.

Our access to abundant natural resources also enables strong local supply chains. Manufacturing here is not done in isolation; it depends on networks of in-state partners that keep production efficient and close to home. Consider, we use recycled glass from Paul Wissmach Glass Company, allowing materials to be reused and recirculated within West Virginia and reducing waste while supporting local industry.

It’s a uniquely local supply chain, rooted in West Virginia manufacturing and strengthened by proximity, reliability, and shared expertise.

Our partnership with Hope Gas is another critical part of that foundation. Thanks to their consistent energy supply, our business can operate safely, efficiently, and without interruption. Their commitment to reliable service ensures that our furnaces stay hot, our production stays on track, and our employees can count on steady work.

These advantages extend well beyond a single business. Across West Virginia, manufacturers in glass, chemicals, plastics, and food production depend on natural gas every day. It supports jobs, anchors communities, and reinforces the state’s role as both an energy leader and manufacturing base.

At Marble King, we’ve built our business on the foundation of local strength and as the last marble manufacturer in the United States, we are proud to keep this tradition alive right here in West Virginia. With continued access to reliable, locally sourced natural gas, we look forward to operating in West Virginia for generations to come.

Beri Fox is the President and CEO of Marble King, a manufacturer of glass marbles in West Virginia.