Springfield MSA named a top U.S. location for food manufacturing 

Springfield made one of the largest leaps in this year’s report, climbing one spot regionally and 31 spot nationally compared to 2024. The jump reflects the region’s strong momentum and growing role in the U.S. food production supply chain.

“Food manufacturing is a cornerstone of the Springfield economy,” said Jonas Arjes, senior vice president of economic development at the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce. “This ranking reinforces what we already know — that our region’s talented workforce, strong industry network, and supportive business climate make Springfield an ideal location for growth and investment.”

Manufacturing is the fourth largest industry in the Springfield MSA, and food manufacturing specifically employs more than 3,000 people — or 16.2% of all manufacturing employment in the area — at companies such as Vital Farms, Kraft Heinz, McCormick French’s, Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr Pepper Bottling Company, and The Erlen Group.

The West North Central region — which includes Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota — is one of the nation’s most attractive destinations for food manufacturing investment. Of the 35 metros analyzed in the region, four earned a place in the national Top 20. After a slowdown in 2023, the region rebounded strongly in 2024, led by new investments in fruits and vegetables, and specialty foods. Between 2023 and 2024, the region accounted for nearly 18% of all U.S. food manufacturing projects, with notable activity in animal food, grains and oilseed, and bakeries and tortillas subsectors.

"Vital Farms chose to operate in Springfield for its central location, hard-working and passionate workforce, and supportive community," said Mike O'Brien, director of plant operations at Vital Farms' Egg Central Station. "Our crew here grades, washes, and packs eggs before they are shipped to more than 23,500 grocery stores and restaurants nationwide, fueling our success as the leading pasture-raised egg brand and the No. 2 egg brand in the U.S. by retail dollar sales—all while advancing our mission to improve the lives of people, animals, and the planet. Springfield provides the infrastructure, talent, and proximity to our network of more than 500 farms that make our growth possible."

Nationally, food manufacturing makes up 14% of all manufacturing jobs and 1.1% of total U.S. employment, ranking as one of the largest and most stable sectors. The industry covers everything from dairy and grain milling to animal processing, bakeries, and specialty foods – turning farm products into the foods that reach tables across the country.

GLS, an internationally recognized location strategy firm, compiles its annual rankings using more than 100 data points across categories including demographics, workforce availability, infrastructure, operating costs, and livability. Springfield’s recognition in the 2025 GLS report underscores the region’s growing momentum as a key player in the U.S. food manufacturing economy.

This recognition further highlights Springfield’s role as a thriving hub for food manufacturing and signals continued opportunity for investment and job growth in the region.

The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce serves as the leading advocate for business, catalyst for economic growth, and champion for enhanced quality of life throughout the Springfield region.