Gov. Jay Nixon joined company leadership and local economic development officials to announce a $5.1 million expansion by Leggett & Platt in Carthage. The company's expansion project will add 28,000 square feet and an expected 12 jobs at its Carthage Flex-O-Lators facility, which manufactures automotive seating components. Gov. Nixon also recognized Leggett & Platt with a Flag of Freedom award for hiring veterans through the Governor's Show-Me Heroes program.
"The ongoing success of Leggett & Platt, along with its increasing investment and job creation, is another step forward for Missouri's manufacturing and automotive industries," Gov. Nixon said. "Over the past five years, we've kept Missouri a low tax state and made targeted investments in our workforce to grow our economy and help businesses succeed. With 130 years in the Show-Me State, Leggett & Platt is another made-in-Missouri success story."
Founded in 1883, Leggett & Platt originally manufactured steel coil bedsprings. Since then, the company has diversified and manufactures a broad portfolio of products found in homes, offices and vehicles. Headquartered in Carthage, the company has 130 facilities in 17 countries.
"We're very pleased to be expanding in Carthage," said David S. Haffner, Leggett & Platt Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors. "This Flex-O-Lators facility is critical to Leggett & Platt's growth in the highly competitive global automotive industry. Leggett & Platt began in Missouri and we want to grow here. The state's dedicated workforce, central location, and low taxes make Missouri very attractive location for business growth."
The Show-Me Heroes program, established by Gov. Nixon in January 2010, is designed to connect military veterans with job opportunities when they return home from service. Administered by the Missouri Division of Workforce Development, Show-Me Heroes showcases Missouri businesses that are willing and eager to hire veterans. Employers participating in the Show-Me Heroes program sign a pledge to ramp up efforts to reach out to, recruit and interview veterans for job openings at their business. Leggett & Platt employs 69 veterans in Missouri.
Leggett & Platt's expansion is just the latest victory in the Missouri manufacturing industry. Several Missouri manufacturers have recently announced significant expansions, including Holland 1916, in Liberty; CertainTeed Corporation, in Jonesburg; Staying Home Corporation, in Harrisonville; Noranda Aluminum Holding Corporation, in New Madrid; and IBC North America and CleanTide Containers, in Chillicothe. With the 8th lowest corporate taxes, 8th lowest average commercial energy costs, and the 9th best transportation network, Missouri provides a favorable climate for businesses to thrive.
"We're very grateful for the support that Leggett & Platt has received from Gov. Nixon, the Missouri Department of Economic Development, and officials in the City of Carthage and Jasper County," said Mark Elliff, President and Economic Development Director of the Carthage Chamber of Commerce. "Leggett & Platt has been a strong corporate partner with Carthage for 130 years. Their specialty divisions, like Flex-O-Lators, continue to produce and develop innovative products in their areas of expertise. Their leadership in innovation and commitment to Missouri are only a few reasons why Leggett & Platt is a great and growing company."
To assist Leggett & Platt with its expansion, the Department of Economic Development has authorized a strategic economic incentive package that the company can receive if it meets strict job creation and investment criteria.