Nissan Rogue Named Winner of Inaugural Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee Contest

Originally Shared in Tennessee Chamber Weekly Newsletter (7/30/24) 

NASHVILLE, Tennessee – The votes are in, and The Tennessee Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that Nissan Rogue, made in Smyrna, has been voted the winner of the inaugural Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee contest. 

The winner was announced Thursday at the official contest luncheon and Smart Solutions for Smart Factories Expo at The Commons at PIE Innovation Center in Cleveland, Tennessee. 

“The Nissan Rogue’s victory in our inaugural contest is a testament to the outstanding quality and impact of Tennessee’s manufacturing sector,” said Bradley Jackson, President & CEO of the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry. “This award highlights the exceptional work being done at Nissan’s Smyrna plant and their contribution to the automotive industry.” 

The Tennessee Chamber and Tennessee Manufacturers Association, in partnership with the Smart Factory Institute Tennessee, University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services, and the Chattanooga Regional Manufacturers Association, launched the Coolest Thing Made in TN contest to highlight and celebrate the state's vibrant manufacturing industry. 

The contest sparked a wave of excitement across the state, drawing over 125 submissions from a diverse array of innovators and manufacturers. Participants ranged from high-profile brands like Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, M&M’S® PEANUT BUTTER MINIS, and Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pie to emerging local enterprises showcasing Tennessee’s rich tapestry of creativity and craftsmanship. 

As the competition progressed, the enthusiasm reached new heights, with over 75,000 votes pouring in from all corners of the state. The fervent engagement from Tennessee’s business and manufacturing community underscored the pride and passion Tennesseans have for their local products. 

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the businesses and manufacturers who submitted their products,” Jackson said. “Their participation in this inaugural contest highlighted the incredible talent and innovation present in our state and look forward to a bigger and better contest next year.” 

To explore the full list of the remarkable 2024 nominees and witness the innovation that defines Tennessee, CLICK HERE.