When Tyson Foods announced the closure of three of its plants in northwest Missouri earlier this year, the announcement sent shock waves through the Ozarks region that had grown accustomed to the presence of the globally-recognized poultry processor. The closures affected hundreds of poultry workers and thousands of business owners and other residents whose economic fortunes were closely linked to Tyson’s presence.
It has been nearly a year since Tyson revealed its plans to close the plants, leaving the once vibrant and economically dynamic area of Ozarks scrambling to figure out ways to strengthen their local businesses in order to restore economic activity. The ripple effect of the closings has been felt far and wide throughout the region; from farmers to restauranteurs, the impact has extended beyond just those who were directly employed by Tyson.
In an effort to replace lost economic opportunities, the Ozarks region has been exploring a variety of new development proposals that could bring in new businesses, create jobs, and improve the economic prospects of the region. Ideas include the expansion of existing businesses, promotion of new industrial sites, and assistance to small businesses in order to lessen the impact of the Tyson closures on the broader Ozark economy. Other measures such as retraining programs, capital investments, and incentives to attract new employers have been proposed.
At the same time, locals in Ozarks have been encouraged to embrace a new spirit of entrepreneurship as they look for innovative ways to create sustainable economic development in the region. Local collaboration among businesses and government entities has been suggested as a way to put the area back on track to economic prosperity.
The Tyson closings have caused residents in the Ozarks to engage in some thoughtful soul-searching as they look to rebuild the region’s economy. What economic strategies can bring about the greatest return on investment as the area moves into the future? With some creative thinking and the right approaches, the area may soon emerge stronger and more prosperous than ever before.