While no one would characterize 2020 as a good year, Kansas City, Missouri, has been successful in attracting manufacturing, distribution and other companies.
On Nov. 19 the Kansas City Area Development Council (KCADC) announced that the region attracted 13 manufacturing, distribution and professional services companies over the past year. These investments total more than $1 billion and will result in the creation of 3,789 jobs.
In order to attract manufacturing, as well as other companies the region made strategic investments several years ago, according to Tim Cowden, CEO, KCADC. “This investment led to the creation of KC SmartPort, which elevates the region’s competitive advantages through consistent messaging to companies in these industries, and is paying dividends today," Cowden said in a statement. .
By building out the infrastructure, the city was able to attract Dot's Pretzels as well as Tuthill Corp which added facilities.
An important part of attracting manufacturing companies, as well as others is its appeal to the current and future workforce. The city has been recognized as a “Top Mid-Size City for Future Projects” by the Site Selectors Guild.
“With a lower cost of living, free Wi-Fi downtown, access to diverse housing options and an abundance of lifestyle amenities, Kansas City is an ideal spot for remote workers leaving larger urban areas due to the pandemic,” said Jill McCarthy, senior executive of corporate attraction, KCADC in a statement.
There are currently 49,000 open jobs in Kansas City, and more than 15,000 jobs are created each year.
