Missouri currently ranks 28th in manufacturing competitiveness, according to research from the Missouri Chamber Foundation.
Manufacturing is one of Missouri’s most important industries, but work is needed to improve the state’s overall competitiveness.
That’s according to a new report, “Making Missouri a Manufacturing Powerhouse,” from the Missouri Chamber Foundation. Released on Thursday, December 19, 2024, the report is part of the Missouri Chamber Foundation’s overarching Missouri 2030 strategic plan, a data-driven initiative to reposition our state as a global economic leader.
“Missouri’s heritage was built on making things, and I’m excited to see our state take the lead in bringing these opportunities back,” said Kara Corches, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “There is a lot of momentum in the manufacturing sector. However, to reach the highest level of economic competitiveness, we must provide an environment in which these employers can thrive.”
Researchers with Economic Leadership LLC used nearly 60 metrics to rank all 50 states for overall manufacturing competitiveness. Missouri ranked 28th in Economic Leadership’s index, while several neighboring states, including Tennessee, Kentucky and Nebraska, ranked among the top 15.
According to the report, manufacturing is a critical piece of the Missouri economy, contributing $50 billion annually to the state’s gross domestic product (GDP) and employing 287,000 people. The performance of manufacturing industries in Missouri has been particularly strong since the Great Recession, with major gains in manufacturing GDP, manufacturing employment and the number of manufacturing establishments in Missouri.
However, “Making Missouri a Manufacturing Powerhouse” also shows plenty of room for improvement. In critical competitiveness categories, such as workforce and infrastructure, Missouri is among the bottom 15 states.
The report features seven recommendations to make Missouri a manufacturing powerhouse:
- Expand the workforce pipeline for manufacturing careers
- Provide incentives and technical assistance to increase capital investment
- Invest in infrastructure to support manufacturing, including transportation, broadband and energy
- Support the recruitment of new manufacturers and expansion of existing operations
- Increase exports
- Strengthen Missouri’s legal climate
- Address public safety
“In a time of great opportunity but also great competition, Missouri must establish a goal of moving from good to great,” Corches said. “This report should serve as a roadmap for employers, educators, policymakers and economic development leaders to build on our state’s strengths and improve on its weaknesses. By working together, we can establish Missouri as one of the country’s true manufacturing powerhouses.”
Nearly 300 manufacturing leaders and stakeholders from across Missouri contributed to the report through one-on-one interviews and roundtable discussions held in St. Louis, Kansas City, Jefferson City and Springfield.
To access the full report, click here.
