Bismarck, Mo. – January 8, 2025 – IKO, a global leader in the manufacturing and supply of residential shingles, commercial roofing, and waterproofing products, is proud to announce plans to open a new granule facility for its subsidiary, Bismarck Granules, in Bismarck, Missouri.

“We’re proud to see another leading manufacturer like IKO choosing to grow in Missouri,” said Governor Mike Parson. “This company’s significant expansion in Bismarck speaks to our ability to support businesses through our state’s strategic location, low costs, and skilled workforce. We congratulate IKO on its success and look forward to the positive impact it will provide for Missourians.”

The company is investing more than $120 million in the new facility. It will directly supply granules to IKO’s shingle plants across the U.S. The company plans to establish a quarry nearby to support the operation. Bismarck Granules is partnering with New Frontier Materials to secure feedstock to be used as input to the process. Engineering firm Penta is also collaborating with the company on the project.

“We are tremendously excited to see this important project proceeding,” said David Koschitzky, CEO of IKO North America. “It is the culmination of several years of effort by both our team and our partners to finalize a facility that will play an essential role in supplying our US operations. In addition to our team, our local partners at New Frontier Materials and Subhash Mohan and the group at PENTA Engineering Corporation, deserve a great deal of thanks for helping us get to the start of construction of this state-of-the-art facility.”

Bismarck Granules is set to create more than 50 new jobs in the region, strengthening the local economy. The company chose Bismarck for its highly skilled workforce, strategic central location, and excellent interstate connectivity.

“We are incredibly proud to have IKO and Bismarck Granules in our community,” said Mayor Seth Radford. “They have already proven to be outstanding partners, and we value the strong relationships we’ve built together. Their investment in this project highlights the incredible potential of our city, and we look forward to working closely with them as they continue to grow and bring prosperity to our region.”

“St. Francois County is proud to be a part of adding IKO as a productive business in our community,” said Harold Gallaher, Presiding Commissioner of St. Francois County. “The additional jobs and revenue will help ensure the prosperity of our county.”

Construction is underway, with plans to open in 2026.

“IKO’s new facility is exciting news for Bismarck and our state’s ever-growing manufacturing industry,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “Thank you for selecting our state to invest, create jobs, and help Missourians prosper.”

“Missouri continues to be a top choice for innovative manufacturers like IKO,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “Missouri has established itself as a premier destination for construction materials manufacturing, offering unmatched advantages like a skilled workforce, central location, and a business-friendly environment. We are proud to welcome IKO to the state, and we look forward to the opportunities this company will create for the Bismarck community and the region.”

Missouri Partnership worked with several partners to attract Bismarck Granules to Missouri, including: the City of Bismarck, St. Francois County, St. Francois County Industrial Development Authority, SEMO Regional Planning Commission, the Missouri Department of Economic Development, and Ameren.

About Bismarck Granules LLC
Bismarck Granules LLC is a division of IKO. IKO is a worldwide leader in the roofing, waterproofing and insulation industry for residential and commercial markets. A vertically integrated company, IKO operates more than 35 manufacturing plants throughout North America and Europe. IKO is a family-owned business established in 1951.

About Missouri Partnership
Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization focused on attracting new jobs and investment to the state and promoting Missouri’s business strengths. Since 2008, Missouri Partnership has worked with partners statewide to attract companies that have created 34,000+ new jobs, $1.7 billion+ in new annual payroll, and $8 billion+ in new capital investment. Some recent successful projects that led to major investment in Missouri include Accenture Federal Services LLC, American Foods Group, Casey’s, Chewy, Inc., Google, James Hardie, Meta, Swift Prepared Foods, URBN, USDA, and Veterans United.

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The new $5 million facility will optimize operations for the Shopify-brand aggregator

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – December 3, 2024 – OpenStore, an innovative e-commerce platform transforming how businesses scale and operate, has announced its first-ever fulfillment center in Kansas City, Missouri. It is set to open in March 2025.

The 113,000-square-foot facility, located at Executive Park Logistics Center, represents a $5 million capital investment and positions OpenStore to provide faster and more efficient service to its growing portfolio of e-commerce brands. The investment is expected to bring 46 new jobs and $2 million in payroll to the Kansas City region in the next five years.

“No matter the industry, Missouri delivers what innovative businesses like OpenStore need to invest, grow, and thrive,” said Governor Mike Parson. “It’s always exciting to see cutting-edge companies choosing the Show-Me State due to our strategic location, superior infrastructure and talented workforce. We welcome OpenStore to Kansas City and look forward to its contributions to the area’s growing distribution sector.”

OpenStore is the largest operator of businesses on Shopify, with more than 100,000 SKUs and a customer base exceeding 2 million. The e-commerce company is committed to scaling its portfolio through investments in technology and innovation, improving customer support with its AI-powered tool, OpenDesk, and optimizing logistics with its new fulfillment center.

“We are thrilled to announce the opening of our first fulfillment center in Kansas City, Missouri — a major milestone that underscores OpenStore’s incredible growth and our commitment to delivering world-class service to our customers,” said David Reifschneider, Head of Supply Chain at OpenStore. “This expansion not only enhances our operational capabilities but also positions us to better serve our customers while implementing technology-driven fulfillment solutions. The future is bright and we’re excited to embark on this next chapter of growth and opportunity with the significant talent resources in the Kansas City region.”

A top destination for e-commerce and distribution companies, Kansas City has attracted $2.2 billion in investments and 6,000 jobs to the industry over the last five years.

“I am proud OpenStore chose Kansas City to plant its roots for its first-ever fulfillment center,” said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas. “With OpenStore’s innovative e-commerce technology and our world-class distribution capabilities, talented workforce, and ideal location, I look forward to an exciting chapter in growing our digital economy in Kansas City.”

“We’re a city of innovators and we’re proud to welcome an innovative company like OpenStore to Kansas City,” said Steven Anthony, Vice President of the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City. “We look forward to the continued growth and success of their operations here.”

As a North American industrial hub, Kansas City’s central location and robust transportation infrastructure enable distributors to reach 90% of the contiguous U.S. in two days or less by truck. Companies also enjoy access to a strong talent pipeline of 190,000+ logistics and manufacturing employees.

“Kansas City continues to be a key player in industrial growth and innovation, attracting 70 million square feet of development in the past decade,” said Josie Calkins, Director at KC SmartPort, a strategic affiliate of the Kansas City Area Development Council. “The region’s unmatched location and logistics advantages are highly attractive to technologically innovative companies like OpenStore looking to optimize their operations and expand their reach.”

“We’re thrilled to support OpenStore as it joins a growing list of high-tech employers expanding in Kansas City,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “We look forward to OpenStore helping Missourians prosper in the Kansas City region by bringing additional investment and new jobs to the area.”

“We are excited to welcome OpenStore to Missouri, where innovation and industry meet to create extraordinary opportunities,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “Their investment in Kansas City highlights the strength of our central location, robust infrastructure, and skilled workforce. Missouri continues to be a premier destination for e-commerce and logistics companies, and we look forward to seeing OpenStore thrive in our state.”

Career opportunities for the Kansas City facility are now available at OpenStore’s job openings page, with additional opportunities coming in 2025.

About OpenStore
OpenStore is the largest operator of businesses on Shopify. With over 100,000 SKUs and a customer base exceeding 2 million, OpenStore invests in innovation and technology to drive sustainable growth and long-term success across its diverse portfolio. For more information, visit https://open.store.

About Missouri Partnership
Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization focused on attracting new jobs and investment to the state and promoting Missouri’s business strengths. Since 2008, Missouri Partnership has worked with partners statewide to attract companies that have created 34,000+ new jobs, $1.7 billion+ in new annual payroll, and $7.8 billion+ in new capital investment. Some recent successful projects that led to major investment in Missouri include Accenture Federal Services LLC, American Foods Group, Casey’s, Chewy, Inc., Google, James Hardie, Meta, Swift Prepared Foods, URBN, USDA, and Veterans United.

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Glasgow, Mo. – December 4, 2024 – CAM Construction Services is proud to announce the expansion of its cabinet manufacturing division, Heritage Wood Mills, to Glasgow, Missouri. This strategic move reflects the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality, locally crafted cabinetry to homeowners, general contractors, municipalities, and businesses across Missouri and surrounding states.

“We’re pleased to see yet another quality manufacturer like CAM Construction Services choosing to locate in Missouri,” said Governor Mike Parson. “This company’s decision to invest and create new jobs in Glasgow is welcome news for the community and our state’s thriving manufacturing industry. Once again, our strategic central location, skilled workforce, and low costs have produced results that are strengthening our economy.”

Heritage Wood Mills will produce a wide range of cabinetry options at the new facility, from convenient online orders to fully customized designs tailored to every customer’s unique needs. Unlike many competitors, their cabinets will be manufactured 100% in Missouri, ensuring quality, reliability, and a commitment to supporting local craftsmanship – without reliance on overseas suppliers.

“We’re excited to bring our operations to Glasgow, creating jobs and strengthening local manufacturing while enhancing our ability to serve customers throughout the region,” said Clint Jacobs, CEO of CAM Construction Services. “Our expansion underscores our mission to combine exceptional quality with personalized service for every project, big or small.”

This move positions Heritage Wood Mills as a leader in the industry, offering premium cabinetry that is both accessible and proudly made in the heart of the U.S. The company is investing $925,000 and plans to create 30 new jobs in the region.

“We are thrilled to welcome CAM Construction Services LLC as they establish a new manufacturing facility in our community,” said Mayor Joseph Gibbs. “This is a significant milestone for our city, and we are committed to providing the support and resources needed to ensure their success. We look forward to working closely with the company as they settle in and contribute to the continued economic development of Glasgow. This investment is a shining example of how our community is evolving, and we couldn’t be more excited to see what the future holds for both CAM Construction and Glasgow, Missouri.”

“We are ecstatic to welcome CAM Construction Services to Glasgow, Howard County, and the broader Northeast Missouri region,” said Kaylee Paffrath, President & CEO of the Moberly Area Economic Development Corporation & Provider of Economic Development Services for the Howard County Economic Development Council. “This project highlights the strength of partnerships and our dedication to fostering growth and opportunity, especially for rural communities. We’re excited to support CAM Construction Services as they grow and succeed in their new home.”

The company selected Glasgow due to its workforce, pro-business environment, and proximity to customers. Construction is underway, with plans to open early next year.

“CAM Construction Services’ new facility in Glasgow is the latest example of an employer helping Missourians prosper through investment and job creation,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “DED is proud to support this exciting project that was made possible by our state’s economic advantages and the contributions of our incredible partners.”

“CAM Construction Services’ decision to expand to Glasgow is a testament to the incredible manufacturing talent and resources we have here in Missouri,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “Missouri has a rich history of craftsmanship and innovation, and this investment not only builds on that legacy but also strengthens our rural communities. We’re excited to see this project come to life and look forward to the positive impact it will bring to Glasgow and the surrounding region.”

Missouri Partnership worked with several partners to attract CAM Construction Services to Glasgow, including: the city of Glasgow, Moberly Area Economic Development Corporation, Howard County Economic Development Council, the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Evergy, and Liberty Utilities.

About CAM Construction Services LLC
Founded in 2018, Heritage Wood Mills, a division of CAM Construction Services, specializes in crafting high-quality custom cabinetry for both residential and commercial spaces. With a commitment to superior craftsmanship and innovative design, we offer a wide range of styles, materials, and finishes to bring each client’s unique vision to life. From kitchens and bathrooms to tailored storage solutions, our team blends expert artistry with state-of-the-art technology to deliver exceptional results. Proudly serving Missouri and the surrounding areas, Heritage Wood Mills is dedicated to creating spaces that embody functionality, durability, and timeless beauty.

About Missouri Partnership
Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization focused on attracting new jobs and investment to the state and promoting Missouri’s business strengths. Since 2008, Missouri Partnership has worked with partners statewide to attract companies that have created 34,000+ new jobs, $1.7 billion+ in new annual payroll, and $7.8 billion+ in new capital investment. Some recent successful projects that led to major investment in Missouri include Accenture Federal Services LLC, American Foods Group, Casey’s, Chewy, Inc., Google, James Hardie, Meta, Swift Prepared Foods, URBN, USDA, and Veterans United.

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Facility will support Mid-South farmers and meet growing demand for soybeans

New Madrid, Mo. – November 13, 2024 – Beck’s, the largest family-owned retail seed company in the United States, is excited to announce the groundbreaking of its new soybean processing facility in New Madrid, Missouri. The state-of-the-art facility will help meet the growing demand for soybeans in the Mid-South region, expanding opportunities for local farmers and strengthening Beck’s commitment to serving the agricultural community.

“We’re proud to welcome Beck’s to the Show-Me State as it announces this exciting new facility in New Madrid,” said Governor Mike Parson. “As a business owner and third-generation farmer, I’m thrilled to see an agricultural leader like Beck’s making such a significant investment in our state. This company’s presence in New Madrid will support the area’s economy, benefit local farmers, and further strengthen Missouri agriculture as a whole.”

Situated on 105.5 acres, the facility will cover 60,000 square feet and have a processing capacity of 3 million units of soybeans per year. The facility will also feature additional warehouse space and seed storage, ensuring that Beck’s can effectively meet the needs of farmers in the area. Construction will be completed in phases, with the first phase expected to be finished by December 2024. The facility is projected to be fully operational by fall 2026. In its first year, it will create 17 new jobs, bringing a welcome boost to the local economy.

“We are thrilled to expand our presence in the Mid-South and put down roots in the New Madrid community,” said Scott Beck, President of Beck’s. “This new facility represents our ongoing commitment to serving farmers by providing them with high-quality soybean products and elite customer service. We look forward to building strong partnerships in the area and supporting the growth of the agricultural industry for years to come.”

This facility marks another significant step in Beck’s mission to provide innovative solutions and service to farmers across the United States. As demand for soybeans continues to rise, Beck’s continues to invest in the infrastructure needed to support the future of farming.

Beck’s is proud to partner with Missouri Partnership, the city of New Madrid, the New Madrid County Commission, Liberty Utilities, the Missouri Department of Economic Development, and the State of Missouri to bring this new facility to New Madrid. This collaboration will enhance Beck’s ability to attract investment and create jobs in the New Madrid community, further contributing to the region’s agricultural development and economic vitality.

“This exciting investment of millions of dollars not only brings new jobs to our community but also highlights our commitment to fostering a vibrant business environment,” said Mayor Nick White. “New Madrid is open for business, and together with Beck’s, we are planting the seeds for a prosperous future.”

“Working with Beck’s has been and continues to be an absolute pleasure,” said Aaron Griffin, New Madrid City Administrator. “They are a family-owned and operated organization that adheres to family values. They promote agriculture in innovative ways. New Madrid prides itself on having family values and agriculture as a part of its backbone. We humbly welcome them to our beautiful community.”

“Beck’s decision to establish a footprint in New Madrid, bringing with it jobs and investment, creates excitement and new opportunities for Missourians to prosper,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “Team DED is proud to support Beck’s, and we are incredibly grateful that they chose southeast Missouri for their new location.”

“Missouri’s deep-rooted history in soybean production, paired with our robust infrastructure and skilled workforce, makes it the perfect location for Beck’s to grow and succeed,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “This investment highlights our state’s leadership in the industry and reinforces Missouri’s role as a critical hub for feeding and fueling the world.”

About Beck’s
Beck’s- Farmers At Heart® – revolutionized the customer seed buying experience by remaining true to a foundation built on faith, family, and farming. Founded in 1937, Beck’s appreciates the farmers who have helped them become the largest family-owned retail seed company and the third largest seed brand in the United States. The Beck family is now in its fifth generation of family members who work in the business to honor God and help farmers succeed. The Beck family and team of employees help farmers achieve success from generation to generation through authentic customer experiences, product diversity, seed quality, and performance. With a home office located in Atlanta, IN, Beck’s serves farmers throughout the Midwest and Mid-South. For more information about Beck’s, visit www.beckshybrids.com. Follow Beck’s on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.

About Missouri Partnership
Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization focused on attracting new jobs and investment to the state and promoting Missouri’s business strengths. Since 2008, Missouri Partnership has worked with partners statewide to attract companies that have created 34,000+ new jobs, $1.7 billion+ in new annual payroll, and $7.8 billion+ in new capital investment. Some recent successful projects that led to major investment in Missouri include Accenture Federal Services LLC, American Foods Group, Casey’s, Chewy, Inc., Google, James Hardie, Meta, Swift Prepared Foods, URBN, USDA, and Veterans United.

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Recognition underscores MURR’s pivotal role in positioning Missouri as a leader in nuclear science and technology.

The University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) has been named the 2024 Hawthorn Foundation Project of the Year for its groundbreaking work and significant contributions to scientific research, innovation, and economic development in Missouri. This recognition underscores Mizzou’s pivotal role in positioning Missouri as a leader in nuclear science and technology.

Governor Mike Parson presented the award to UM System President Mun Choi and other university leaders during the Missouri Governor’s Conference on Economic Development.

“We congratulate the MURR team, President Choi, and the University of Missouri on earning this well-deserved award,” said Governor Mike Parson. “Not only will the MURR project see to it that Missouri emerges as a global leader in radioisotope production; it also means job creation, economic development, and cutting-edge research and innovation. We are proud to be home to this exciting new project and look forward to the advancements in healthcare and nuclear medicine that will come from it.”

MURR was selected because of its ongoing expansion of radioisotope production and the transformative initiative to build a new, state-of-the-art research reactor — NextGen MURR. This project represents a $1 billion investment in the future of nuclear medicine and radioisotope production, establishing Missouri as a global hub for leading-edge research and innovation.

“The University of Missouri Research Reactor exemplifies the innovative spirit and forward-thinking approach that the Hawthorn Foundation seeks to recognize and support,” said Becky Willard, Executive Director of the Hawthorn Foundation. “MURR’s contributions to nuclear science and its impact on both healthcare and economic development in Missouri are truly outstanding. This award acknowledges not just their achievements to date, but also the promise of what their ongoing work will bring to our state and beyond.”

MURR’s expansion, including the construction of the $20 million addition named MURR West, will create more than 50 jobs in 2025 and is set to generate many more as the organization continues to grow. The new addition, which broke ground in October 2023, will support the development and production of life-saving radioisotopes, further solidifying MURR’s status as a premier research institution.

“The University of Missouri Research Reactor is at the forefront of scientific innovation and economic development, and we are honored to receive the Hawthorn Foundation Project of the Year Award,” said Mun Choi, President of the University of Missouri. “Our growth is not only a win for Missouri, but also for the millions of patients who benefit from the life-saving treatments developed through our research and isotope production.”

The NextGen MURR initiative is set to make Missouri home to the two largest university research reactors in the United States. This project not only enhances MURR’s capacity to produce critical medical isotopes, but also drives job creation, with more than 200 specialized positions anticipated with the new facility.

“The Hawthorn Foundation’s recognition of our work is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the entire MURR team, as well as the vision of the University of Missouri to build a new reactor,” said Matt Sanford, Executive Director of MURR. “There is a critical need for these cancer fighting drugs and our efforts are advancing nuclear science and improving lives of patients around the world. We’re excited to expand MU’s leadership in nuclear science and technology and contribute to the future of healthcare and economic growth in Missouri and beyond.”

In addition to direct job creation, MURR’s initiatives have attracted significant industry investment and partnerships. These collaborations are crucial in building a robust radiopharmaceutical supply chain, reducing U.S. dependency on foreign isotope supplies and driving advancements in cancer treatment and diagnostics.

About Hawthorn Foundation

Hawthorn Foundation is a highly diverse group of statewide leaders dedicated to the economic prosperity of all Missourians. Since 1982, the Hawthorn Foundation has supported trade missions to assist with the promotion of Missouri globally. The organization works diligently toward development, growth, and prosperity for the state of Missouri through partnerships with the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Missouri Partnership, and local and regional economic and workforce development organizations.

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Aptly named Next NGA West, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s $1.6 billion western regional headquarters is getting finishing touches in preparation for its planned opening in 2025 in St. Louis, Missouri.

According to NGA, the Next NGA West headquarters will include advanced wireless technologies and will be built to LEED Silver standards, reflecting a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. The new campus is not only a technological hub, but also a symbol of NGA’s deepening roots in St. Louis, where it has been a fixture for over 70 years. The project is anticipated to catalyze economic growth and urban revitalization in the surrounding area.

Images courtesy of NGA

About NGA

As the world leader in geospatial intelligence (GEOINT), NGA is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and distributing geospatial intelligence to support national security, military operations, disaster response, and global navigation. GEOINT involves the use of satellite imagery, mapping, and other geospatial data to provide insights into geographic locations and activities. NGA’s work is crucial for military planning, homeland security, and aiding in humanitarian efforts. It operates under the Department of Defense and collaborates with various intelligence and defense organizations. The agency is headquartered in Springfield, Virginia, with two major locations in St. Louis and Arnold, Missouri.

History of NGA In St. Louis:

NGA started as a mapping agency for the U.S. military during World War II and expanded to include advanced geospatial intelligence, supporting military operations, national security, and humanitarian missions. The agency has maintained a significant presence in St. Louis, with its headquarters serving as a central hub for geospatial intelligence activities. As repairs and updates became necessary at its south St. Louis facility, which dates back to the 1840s, the decision to build a new facility for NGA’s western headquarters was made. St. Louis has been a strategic location for NGA because of its central position in the U.S., existing infrastructure, and the city’s robust talent pool.

In 2016, NGA announced plans to invest $1.6 billion in a new, state-of-the-art western headquarters in North St. Louis, solidifying its commitment to the region. This movereflects both the strategic importance of St. Louis in the geospatial intelligence community and the city’s growing reputation as a center for innovation and technology. The new facility, set to be operational next year, represents the latest chapter in NGA’s enduring relationship with St. Louis.

“The St. Louis city site provides NGA with the most technological, academic and professional environment,” Agency Director Robert Cardillo said. And the urban base is preferable to “attract, recruit and retain” its more than 3,000 high-tech workers.

In 2019, NGA celebrated the groundbreaking of its new campus in North St. Louis, marking a significant milestone for both the agency and the city. The state-of-the-art facility will feature 712,000 square feet of office space and is designed to foster collaboration and innovation within the geospatial intelligence community.

St. Louis Geospatial Scene:

St. Louis’ geospatial ecosystem is rapidly becoming a national hub for geospatial technology and innovation, driven by a unique combination of government, industry, and academic collaboration.

The new Next NGA West headquarters, just north of downtown, is conveniently located adjacent to a variety of innovative and cultural areas. NGA’s own unclassified innovation hub, Moonshot Labs  located inside T-Rex’s Geospatial Innovation Center, The Globe Building, which includes the first and the largest multi-tenant SCIF outside of Washington D.C., and the Taylor Geospatial Institute, are all located within downtown St. Louis. These vibrant startup and innovation districts are all in close proximity to the new Next NGA West headquarters, as are the cultural and sporting areas of the Central West End, Forest Park, Grand Center and Clark Avenue. Next NGA West will also be located in the center of three top universities, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University and the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

As NGA embarks on this new chapter, the facility is poised to become a cornerstone of the city’s burgeoning geospatial ecosystem, driving innovation and security efforts for years to come.For more details, visit the groundbreaking announcement.

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Missouri, known as the “Show-Me State,” is increasingly showing businesses why it is a prime destination for expansion. With its strategic central location, favorable economic climate, robust infrastructure, and supportive business community, Missouri is making a name for itself as one of North America’s most business-friendly places to grow your business. Here’s why companies should consider expanding into Missouri.

Missouri’s Strategic Location in the Heart of America

Missouri’s central location provides a significant logistical advantage. Positioned in the heart of the U.S., Missouri allows businesses to reach over half of the U.S. population within a day’s drive. This makes it an ideal hub for distribution and logistics operations. Americold, a  global leader in temperature-controlled logistics, recently chose Kansas City, Missouri for its $127 million cold storage facility to support more customers across North America.

Transportation Infrastructure

Missouri boasts a comprehensive transportation network, including:

• Highways: Over 33,000 miles of state highways and 1,380 miles of interstate highways.
• Railways: An extensive railway system with over 4,000 miles of tracks.
• Rivers: The Missouri and Mississippi Rivers provide vital waterways for transporting goods.
• Airports: Two major airports, Lambert-St. Louis International and Kansas City International, alongside numerous regional airports, support both passenger travel and cargo shipment.

Missouri’s Favorable Economic Climate

Competitive Tax Structure

Missouri offers one of the most competitive tax environments in the nation. The state has a low corporate income tax rate and offers numerous tax credits and incentives to businesses, such as:

Affordable Cost of Living

Missouri is one of the top ten least expensive states to live in America. Missouri’s cost of living is significantly lower than the national average. According to a report comparing Missouri’s cost of living to the national average, Missouri falls between 11% and 14% lower, according to UpNest by Realtor. Lower costs for real estate, utilities, and everyday expenses mean businesses can operate more efficiently and employees can enjoy a higher quality of life.

Missouri’s Skilled Workforce

Education and Training

Missouri places a strong emphasis on education and workforce development. The state is home to top-tier universities and colleges, including the University of Missouri System, Washington University in St. Louis, and Saint Louis University. These institutions not only provide a pipeline of skilled graduates, but also collaborate with businesses on research and development projects.

Workforce Development Programs

Missouri offers a range of workforce development initiatives to ensure businesses have access to well-trained employees. Programs such as Missouri One Start provide customized training solutions tailored to the specific needs of businesses, enhancing productivity and growth.

Missouri’s Supportive Business Community

Pro-Business Policies

Missouri’s government is committed to creating a pro-business environment. Efforts to reduce regulatory burdens and streamline business processes make it easier for companies to set up and expand operations in the state.

Collaborative Ecosystem

The state fosters a collaborative business ecosystem, with numerous organizations and networks dedicated to supporting businesses. Groups like Missouri Partnership and local chambers of commerce provide resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy to help businesses thrive.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Missouri is also a hotbed for innovation and entrepreneurship. Cities like St. Louis and Kansas City have vibrant startup scenes, supported by incubators, accelerators, and investment networks. This entrepreneurial spirit drives growth and attracts new businesses to the state.

Missouri’s Quality of Life

Diverse and Vibrant Culture

Missouri offers a rich cultural heritage and diverse recreational opportunities. From the bustling urban environments of St. Louis and Kansas City to the scenic beauty of the Ozarks, there is something for everyone. Cultural attractions, professional sports teams, and a variety of dining and entertainment options contribute to a high quality of life.

Affordable and Enjoyable Living

Its affordable housing market, combined with natural beauty and recreational opportunities makes Missouri an attractive place to live and work. The balance of urban amenities and rural charm provides a unique living experience that appeals to a wide range of people.Missouri’s business-friendly environment, characterized by its strategic location, favorable economic climate, skilled workforce, supportive business community, and high quality of life, makes it an ideal destination for companies looking to expand. Explore the opportunities Missouri has to offer and see why it’s the perfect place for your next business venture here.

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CFO and COO provide in-depth look at successful Missouri company

Who is Crossroads Warehouse?

Crossroads Warehouse was established in 2004. Initially, we also operated a trucking company that was founded in 1986. Many of our customers frequently inquired about storage and warehouse space, prompting us to expand our services. We assisted several manufacturing companies facing space constraints, enabling them to increase their production capacity. Our journey began with the construction of a small warehouse, which was filled with products even before completion. This success led to the rapid development of a second warehouse, followed shortly by a third. Eventually, we sold the trucking company to focus exclusively on the warehouse industry. Recently, we celebrated our 20th anniversary with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for our latest expansion, adding another 100,000 square feet to our facility.

What do you store?

Over the past 20 years, we have stored a wide variety of items. Our inventory has included empty bottles and lids for shake and sports drink manufacturers, corporate files, dog food, and finished products like gallons of juice destined for grocery stores nationwide. Recently, we have shifted our focus exclusively to food and food-related products. We were awarded the Supplier Assurance-Distribution Certification by NSF, an organization accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to certify supplier compliance with U.S. food safety regulations under the FDA’s Accredited Third-Party Certification program.

The Supplier Assurance certification process involves a rigorous evaluation to ensure facilities meet stringent standards in areas such as maintenance, cleanliness, pest control, personal hygiene, chemical and allergen control, staff training, and food defense. These standards are crucial for companies involved in the storage, distribution, and transportation of food products, playing a vital role in the global food supply chain.

What other services do you offer?

For our local manufacturing clients, we provide a shuttle service. Our trucks and drivers pick up products from the manufacturing plants and transport them to our warehouse. Sometimes, these products are raw ingredients needed by another manufacturing company in the area. In such cases, we load and deliver the necessary items to the respective companies, offering a local version of over-the-road trucking. Additionally, we can load external carriers from our warehouse and ship products anywhere in the country.

We also offer cross-docking services for truck drivers passing through the area who need their loads rearranged. Drivers can bring their loads to us, and we will unload, rearrange, and reload the products according to their needs. If a truck has pallets that need to be temporarily stored for a few hours or days, we can accommodate that and then deliver the items later, either with a different truck or using our local shuttle services.

What is it like doing business in Missouri?

We absolutely love it! Missouri’s central location is ideal for serving businesses on both coasts, facilitating shipping from the East to the West, and from the South to the North, and vice versa. Our facility is conveniently situated near major highways, including I-44, I-49, Highway 249, and the Historic Route 66. Being in the heart of the country offers tremendous advantages for us and our customers in the manufacturing sector.

Do all products need to be on pallets?

No, we can handle a wide range of products, not just those on pallets. We have special attachments for our forklifts to manage large rolls. For example, some of our customers produce wrappers for fast food companies. These wrappers are shipped in huge rolls of paper before they are printed on. With our clamp attachment, we can unload these rolls and reload them when they’re ready to be sent to the printer.

Where are you located?

Our address is Carthage, Missouri, but we are positioned midway between Joplin and Carthage. Our facility is conveniently near the Industrial Parks in both Webb City and Joplin.

What makes Crossroads stand out when compared to other warehouse and storage businesses? 

At Crossroads Warehouse, we pride ourselves on solving our customers’ problems with personalized, hands-on service. As a family-owned and operated business, we are deeply involved in our daily operations. It’s not uncommon to see leadership team on a forklift ensuring that every task is handled with precision.

We see ourselves as an extension of our customers’ businesses. By putting ourselves in their shoes, we ensure that their products are handled with the utmost care and attention. Our staff is trained to focus on details and maintain high standards, but we also believe in creating a fun and supportive work environment. Our marketing team doubles as our culture department, organizing activities that make our workplace enjoyable. At Crossroads Warehouse, we take care of each other like family, fostering a culture of dedication, excellence, and camaraderie.

We help manufacturing companies by allowing them to focus on their main goal: making products, not warehousing. By storing products for them, we free up space at their location for increased manufacturing capacity. We take care of warehousing and storage so they don’t have to, enabling them to concentrate on what they do best.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. – April 30, 2024 – Americold Realty Trust, a global leader in temperature-controlled logistics, real estate, and value-added services, has officially broken ground on a new $127 million cold storage facility in Kansas City, Missouri. State and local leaders joined company executives to celebrate the company’s new investment in Missouri.

“Americold is yet another example of an industry-leading employer choosing Missouri due to our economic advantages,” said Governor Mike Parson. “This innovative company’s presence in Kansas City is a welcome addition to the region’s thriving logistics sector. We congratulate Americold on its new facility and look forward to the benefits that this investment will provide for Missourians.”

The company plans to create nearly 190 new jobs in the region. The new 335,000-square-foot facility in Kansas City is part of a strategic collaboration with Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) to co-locate Americold warehouse facilities on the CPKC network.

“We are thrilled to break ground on a new cold storage facility in Kansas City,” said George Chappelle, CEO of Americold. “This facility is the first to be built as part of our strategic collaboration with CPKC. By combining our cold storage capabilities with CPKC’s extensive rail network, Americold is poised to deliver a differentiated offering to support more customers across North America.”

“Today’s groundbreaking for this new facility marks the beginning of a significant collaboration that shows what we can achieve with vision and working together for our customers,” said Keith Creel, President and CEO of CPKC. “This project is the first of many across our network and, when combined with our unparalleled cross-border service, will build a new refrigerated supply chain for our customers. Just over one year ago here in Kansas City, when we celebrated the creation of CPKC, we talked about the unique economic benefits our unrivaled network would bring to Kansas City, Missouri and beyond. We are seeing that happen today.”

The new facility will support CPKC’s Mexico Midwest Express (MMX) service, North America’s only single-line rail service offering for refrigerated shippers between U.S. Midwest markets and Mexico. It will also enable more seamless and efficient service for MMX customers.

“I am proud to welcome Americold into our growing and vibrant business community in Kansas City. With the ability to tap into our talented, highly-skilled workforce and our centralized Canadian Pacific Kansas City transportation system allowing access to more consumers internationally, Kansas City is the prime location for an innovative company like Americold to plant its roots,” said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas. “We look forward to the continued success of Americold in our community and the exciting new opportunities available to Kansas City as a result.”

“We’re thrilled to officially welcome Americold to Kansas City,” said Steven Anthony, Vice President of Business Development for the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City Missouri. “Their presence here, along with the great partnership with CPKC, will further reinforce Kansas City’s deep strength in cold storage warehousing and logistics. The new jobs that will be generated and high-paying wages are icing on the cake.”

“We’re proud to support Americold alongside our partners as the company establishes its first facility in Kansas City,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “This exciting project will help Missourians prosper through its significant investment, job creation, and positive impact on our state’s transportation and logistics industry.”

“It is always exciting when a company breaks ground in Missouri, and we are thrilled to officially welcome Americold to Kansas City,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “Americold is joining more than 20,000 distribution and logistics companies in the state who are benefitting from Missouri’s central location, solid infrastructure, and low business costs. We look forward to watching Americold’s facility take shape and seeing their success unfold here in Missouri.”

Missouri Partnership worked with several partners to attract Americold to Kansas City, including: the City of Kansas City, Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri, KC SmartPort, Missouri Department of Economic Development, Missouri One Start, Evergy, and Spire.

About Americold Realty Trust, Inc.

Americold is a global leader in temperature-controlled logistics real estate and value-added services. Focused on the ownership, operation, acquisition, and development of temperature-controlled warehouses, Americold owns and/or operates 245 temperature-controlled warehouses, with approximately 1.5 billion refrigerated cubic feet of storage, in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and South America. Americold’s facilities are an integral component of the supply chain connecting food producers, processors, distributors, and retailers to consumers.

About Missouri Partnership

Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization focused on attracting new jobs and investment to the state and promoting Missouri’s business strengths. Since 2008, Missouri Partnership has worked with partners statewide to attract companies that have created 33,400+ new jobs, $1.7 billion+ in new annual payroll, and $7.6 billion+ in new capital investment. Some recent successful projects that led to major investment in Missouri include Accenture Federal Services LLC, American Foods Group, Casey’s, Chewy, Inc., Google, James Hardie, Meta, Swift Prepared Foods, URBN, USDA, and Veterans United.

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Community partnerships and energy efficiency key to the company’s presence

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI (MARCH 20, 2024) – Today, Google is proud to announce it is expanding its presence in the Midwest with an $1 billion investment in a new data center in Kansas City, Missouri. Additionally, the company announced it is expanding a skilled trade career development program to the region and contributing to North Kansas City School District’s alternative education STEAM program. Google is also working with Evergy to power the site and Ranger Power and D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI) to bring 400 megawatts of new carbon-free energy to the grid as part of the company’s ambitious goal to run on 24/7 carbon-free energy.

Google’s continued investment in technical infrastructure, including its data centers, plays an essential role in supporting the company’s AI innovations and growing Google Cloud business. Google’s data centers help power popular digital services — like Google Cloud, Workspace (which includes Gmail, Docs, Sheets and more), Search and Maps — for people and organizations worldwide.

“Google’s selection of the Kansas City region is another example of our state’s ability to attract and support world-class companies,” said Governor Mike Parson. “Our skilled workforce, superior infrastructure, and prime business climate continue to result in investments from leading employers. We welcome Google to Missouri and look forward to the positive impact it will provide for our growing high-tech sector.”

“Kansas City continues to be one of the fastest-growing technology markets in the country, thanks to our prime location with thousands of hardworking, skilled workers,” said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas.  “Our combined effort with Google is a strong reflection of Kansas City’s success in global industry and our future as an international technology capital.”

“We have reached an important inflection point for tech innovation like AI, and data centers are the backbone of this progress,” said Monique Picou, Global Vice President of Cloud Supply Chain and Operations, Google. “Our announcement today is a testament to the resources, talent and welcoming spirit of the Kansas City community. Together, Kansas City and Google will help power America’s digital future and we are excited to contribute to the bright future of the region.”

“Google’s major investment in KC will have multiple positive impacts long term. Not only will the tech company invest hundreds of millions of dollars benefitting our region’s economy in myriad ways, but Google’s global brand will now be directly linked to KC’s rising brand,” said Tim Cowden, President and CEO, Kansas City Area Development Council. “Google joins other international tech and consumer brands that have recently selected KC for major investments.”

“Data centers and emerging tech infrastructure have never been more vital to our world. Port KC understands that securing Kansas City’s place as a hub for data centers is critically important to the next generation of workforce,” said Jon Stephens, President and CEO, Port KC. “From advanced construction to engineering and IT, we are committed to making KC a leader in creating and growing opportunity for all.”

“This is a significant day for our state as we officially welcome the first Google data center to Missouri,” said Subash Alias, CEO, Missouri Partnership. “Google’s decision to expand into Missouri is the culmination of dedicated efforts from a multitude of partners, and we were honored to be part of the team. We extend a heartfelt welcome to Google as we eagerly anticipate its integration into our thriving tech ecosystem.”

“Google’s decision to locate their new data center campus at Hunt Midwest Business Center is the culmination of the long-term vision and sustained teamwork of so many strategic partners at every level,” said Ora Reynolds, President and CEO, Hunt Midwest. “Ten years ago, the Missouri legislature created economic development programs designed to give the state the tools to compete for valuable data center projects. With the leadership of our economic development organizations, local community stakeholders, and our utility provider’s commitment to investing in tomorrow, this collective group has now brought one of the largest and most transformational global technology companies to Kansas City. We have also built a long-term strategy to ensure we can provide the infrastructure, labor, and tax certainty necessary to grow our mission-critical footprint for years to come.”

“This significant investment from Google speaks to the value of Missouri’s economic advantages and collaborative partnerships,” said Michelle Hataway, Acting Director, Department of Economic Development. “We’re proud to support this historic project as Google joins a growing list of innovative companies that are helping Missourians prosper.”

As part of its commitment to community development, Google announced it will bring its Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) program to the Kansas City area. The company is collaborating with the Missouri Works Initiative and the Urban League to help increase the entry-level pipeline in the skilled trades with a focus on underrepresented communities. All STAR pre-employment programs are paid training programs, and offer networking opportunities to help participants move directly into employment on local construction projects.

“Technology employs one in 10 workers in Kansas City,” said Tracey Lewis, President and CEO, Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City. “We’re thrilled that Google’s presence will add to that significant and growing number of employment opportunities in our great community.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Google here in Kansas City and support their goal of building a connected and sustainable world for everyone. This project will bring lasting positive impacts to our hometown community, and our Centennial year is only amplified by bringing this partnership to our home!” said Chris Teddy, Director of Mission Critical, JE Dunn Construction.

More than 65% of young people today will work in jobs that don’t yet exist, but many aren’t developing the problem-solving skills and digital competencies required to prepare for this future. To help bridge the gap, Google is helping support the technology needs of North Kansas City School District with a more than $100,000 contribution to the STEAM center, which prepares high school students with the skills they need to tackle the future’s biggest challenges and opportunities across a variety of disciplines.

North Kansas City Schools Superintendent Dr. Rochel Daniels says collaborating with Google will benefit students, “Our collaboration will expand students’ access to innovative learning experiences by further leveraging technology and connecting student interests to real-world issues. We are grateful for this opportunity and look forward to a continued relationship with Google.”

“Our reliable, innovative energy solutions fuel the growth of tomorrow’s digital landscape. We’re proud to power Google’s investment in Kansas City and commend Google for its leadership in technology and commitment to sustainability.” said David Campbell, President and CEO, Evergy

Today, Google is also announcing a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Ranger Power and DESRI to support 400 megawatts of new-to-the-grid carbon-free energy capacity from the Missouri-based Beavertail Solar farm. The Beavertail Solar farm is located in a former coal community and will be part of the evolution towards a clean energy future happening around the country. The agreement will support Google’s ambitious 2030 goal to run all its data centers and campuses on carbon-free energy (CFE), every hour of every day. Today, the company already matches 100% of its global annual electricity consumption with renewable energy purchases and, as a pioneer in computing infrastructure, Google’s data centers are some of the most efficient in the world.

Learn more about Google in Missouri at: g.co/economicimpact/missouri

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