3 firms tell why they relocated to Utah

Goulet also mentioned "friendly and welcoming" Utah residents, as well as world-class ski resorts close to an international airport, a large base of athletes with whom the company can interact, "incredible" facilities from the 2002 Olympics and the governor's strategy of attracting similar sports companies to the state.

Pyatt said Viracon needed a western U.S. presence, and a Utah location offered lower shipping costs, lower electricity costs, an in-place infrastructure and available contractor. Its only problem was hiring people for a pair of positions, he said.

Goulet said he was happy to hear Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. emphasize a strong education system, which Goulet said was an issue for Rossignol employees moving to Utah. "Kids today are our future employees," he said.

Jason Perry, executive director of the Governor's Office of Economic Development, said Utah will push the state's quality-of-life advantages in the future. "It almost seems like the increasing question is 'Why not Utah?' which is a great thing ... ," Perry said. "We have to be on the radar for the great companies that exist out there throughout the United States and throughout the world."

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