Business
Business coverage from Lee’s Summit and across the region.
Recent coverage
Missouri Corn Growers Seek Federal Probe into Fertilizer Industry
The Missouri Corn Growers Association asked the Department of Justice to investigate alleged anti-competitive practices within the fertilizer industry. The organization claims potential collusion among fertilizer companies increases costs for farmers.
Kansas City lacks metrics to assess effectiveness of economic incentives
Officials frequently approve financial incentives without established methods to measure their economic impact. This practice limits understanding of which subsidies genuinely benefit the city's development.
Missouri Cannabis Employees Gain Union Representation
Cannabis industry workers across Missouri have secured union representation in several recent efforts. Multiple dispensaries and cultivation facilities now operate under union contracts.

Jefferson City Brewery Connects Business to Historic Prison
A Jefferson City brewery leverages its proximity to the city's historic prison as a central theme for its business operations and a draw for visitors. This approach has allowed the establishment to develop a successful tourism-focused enterprise.
Federal Reserve Report Examines Wealth Distribution Trends
A recent Federal Reserve study indicates that the wealthiest one percent of Americans increased their net worth during the past year. The report attributes this growth to rising stock market values and specific economic policies.
Kansas City Sees Rise in Minority-Owned Businesses
Recent data indicates an increase in the number of businesses owned by minorities in Kansas City. This growth occurs despite various economic challenges.
Bayer Modifies Seed Contracts, Removing Certain Legal Clauses
Bayer Crop Science announced it will temporarily remove specific clauses from its seed purchase agreements. The company stated this change addresses concerns raised by the Department of Justice regarding contract fairness.
State cannabis regulators finalize lottery to award new dispensary licenses
Missouri's cannabis division will hold a final lottery on June 10, distributing 48 new dispensary licenses statewide. Regulators developed new rules to prevent predatory lending practices often seen in previous licensing rounds.
State Track and Field Generates Economic Activity in Jefferson City
The Missouri State High School Activities Association's (MSHSAA) recent track and field championship significantly contributed to Jefferson City's economy. The event brought revenue to local businesses through increased visitor spending.
Google Plans $15 Billion Data Center in Buchanan County
Google will construct a new $15 billion data center in Northwest Missouri's Buchanan County. This significant investment is generating both optimism about economic growth and some community questions regarding its local impact.
Google Plans $15 Billion Data Center Investment in Missouri
Google will invest $15 billion to establish a new data center in Missouri. This significant project positions the state for increased technological infrastructure.
Missouri's unemployment rate holds firm, but teen summer jobs decline
Missouri's unemployment rate remained stable in May, matching figures from previous months. However, the state recorded fewer employed teenagers during the summer season compared to last year.
Cannabis dispensary workers in St. Louis vote to unionize
Employees at a St. Louis marijuana dispensary have approved union representation following a two-year ballot dispute. This vote marks a significant development for labor organizing within Missouri's cannabis industry.
State Attorney General Seeks Maximum Penalty Against Liberty Utilities After Fatal Lexington Explosion
Missouri's Attorney General Andrew Bailey is pursuing the highest possible fine against Liberty Utilities following a fatal natural gas explosion in Lexington. The action stems from an incident that resulted in one death and multiple injuries.
Insurers Sue Nautilus Over Denied Missouri Bridge Claim
Hartford and Navigators Insurance companies jointly filed a lawsuit against Nautilus Insurance in federal court. The suit pertains to Nautilus's refusal to cover damages for a Missouri bridge.
Nebius Initiates Construction of Extensive AI Facility in Independence
Nebius, an artificial intelligence company, began building a new high-capacity AI factory in Independence. This project represents a significant investment in Missouri's technology infrastructure.
Jewelry Retailer Selects St. Louis for First Missouri Location
Untamed, a California-based jewelry company, opened its inaugural Missouri store in the Saint Louis Galleria this month. The new location marks the brand's expansion into the state's retail market.
Evergy, Contractor Resolve Class-Action Lawsuit for $2.6 Million
Evergy and its contracting firm, ACR Group, reached a $2.6 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit. The suit alleged the companies violated federal law by making unsolicited calls to Missouri residents.
Missouri Cannabis Facility Issues Recall Amid Labor Dispute
A St. Louis cannabis cultivation facility initiated a product recall following a labor conflict. The company laid off employees who had voted to unionize.
Arkansas Cannabis Firm Connected to Over 25% of Missouri Dispensaries
An Arkansas-based company has established ties with more than a quarter of the medical marijuana dispensaries operating across Missouri. This association raises questions about the market's competitive landscape.
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