Webb City is one of the fastest growing communities in southwest Missouri. The city grew more than 30% between 1990 and 2000 and that pattern continues. The growth of new homes points to the confidence in the city as well as in one of the finest school systems in Missouri. Webb City is truly a high “quality of life” city.

        A fast growing community with an outstanding school system and high civic pride, Webb City is a prime destination for those who want to establish a new enterprise in a city of outstanding potential. Taxes are extremely low to encourage entrepreneurs to make Webb City their business home. Manufacturers will enjoy the advantages of a dynamic enterprise zone as well as many state incentives for providing jobs and investment.

Lt. Governor Peter Kinder presents Cardinal Scale with

the Missouri Governor's Exporter of the Year Award

    In addition to the heavily traveled Madison Avenue business district, the city has a highly unique downtown area. Due to a recent study by Drury University and their recommendations, investors are coming back downtown to establish restaurants and small businesses. The establishment of a planned historic district will allow the city to offer incentives to those who wish to be a part of an historic business district. Now that the city has been designated a DREAM city by the State of Missouri, this revitalization will be accelerated. DREAM stands for Downtown Revitalization and Economic Assistance for Missouri, an initiative based on the collaboration of three Missouri State agencies, the Missouri of Department Economic Development, Development Finance Board and Housing Development Commission.  Only ten cities in Missouri receive this designation each year.

        The city is unique in comparison to many other cities in that the “Mother Road”, Route 66, runs though the downtown area. The tourism created by Route 66 and the city’s emphasis on that tourism (a Route 66 park and visitor center is planned) allow a business owner to cater to both the tourism patron as well as a local customer base.

        Webb City is ideally located for those with transportation needs. More than 1000 acres of prime commercial real estate, available for development is located along the U.S. 171 and South Madison/Range Line corridors. The new Highway 249 interchange empties on the eastern boundary of the city. Immediately to the west sits the Joplin Airport.  East/West highway access is provided by Interstate 44 giving a Webb City manufacturer or entrepreneur easy transportation access inall directions. Webb City boasts a well trained workforce with a solid work ethic that has been praised by those who have invested in the city. Reasonable utility rates are a plus for large and small operations.

        The city points with pride to existing successful businesses such as Cardinal-Detecto Scale Manufacturing Company. A local startup company, it is a world leader in the manufacture of small as well as the largest industrial scales with sales to over 225 countries. Webb City is proud to note that Cardinal-Detecto is the Missouri Exporter of the Year for 2008.

        The Chamber of Commerce and the new Webb City Department of Economic Development work hand in hand to assist business owners and those who wish to establish businesses in Webb City. Whether it is a small venture or large manufacturer the city and chamber are ready to assist.

Major Employers:

Alcan Packaging – Plastic Packaging

Cardinal Scale Manufacturing Company - Industrial scales
Cliffstar - Juice manufacturer
Dawson Heritage Company, Inc. - Furniture manufacturer
Ozark Machine - Steel fabrication
Wal-Mart Supercenter - Department/discount store
Webb City Health & Rehabilitation - Long-term care facility
Webb City R-VII School District - Education
White Flyer, Division of Reagent Chemical - Clay pigeons

Utilities:
• Webb City Water Department: (417) 673-5077
• Trash Pickup: (417) 673-5077
• Missouri Gas Energy: (800) 582-1234
• Empire District Electric: (417) 673-0300
• Southwestern Bell Residential: (800) 464-7928
• Southwestern Bell Commercial: (800) 499-7928
• Cable One: (417) 624-6340

Other Useful Numbers:
• Economic Development: (417) 673-4651
• Police Department, non-emergency: (417) 673-1911
• Library: (417) 673-4326
                                                               
Health Services:
• Freeman Clinic, Webb City
• Freeman Hospitals and Health System, Joplin
• St. John's Regional Medical Center
• Webb City Health and Rehabilitation (long-term care)
• Webb City Fire and Ambulance Department provides

   advanced life support in emergencies.

Taxes:
• Sales 7.075 percent
• Real estate (county/city) $4.50,
assessed per $100 valuation.

Starting a Business in Webb City, Missouri

City of Webb City

Southwest Missouri Economic Development Alliance

Missouri Department of Economic Development