More watercraft manufacturing is coming to Lebanon.
Bass Pro Shops and White River Marine Group on Wednesday announced the acquisition of Hobie, a legendary water sports brand. As part of the move, White River Marine will expand its manufacturing operations in Lebanon, returning Hobie production and new jobs to the United States — and specifically to the heart of the Missouri Ozarks.
“White River Marine Group has continued to spur economic growth in our community for nearly five decades,” said Mayor Jared Carr in a city press release. “This additional expansion in Lebanon will create new opportunities for our amazing workforce for many more years to come. We are blessed by and thankful for White River Marine’s commitment to the City of Lebanon, Laclede County, and the State of Missouri, and we’re excited to see the outcomes this expansion will deliver in the very near future.”
Hobie’s move to Lebanon represents a new chapter for the brand, known globally for kayaks, sailboats, and pedal-driven watercraft. The expansion will deepen Lebanon’s role in the outdoor recreation and manufacturing industries while contributing to Missouri’s reputation as a prime destination for business and adventure, the city announcement said.
“We’re proud to see Bass Pro Shops and White River Marine Group deepening their commitment to Missouri through this expansion,” Governor Mike Kehoe is quoted as saying in a release from the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “This investment is strengthening the community of Lebanon while contributing to Missouri’s reputation as a prime destination for both business and outdoor adventure.”
“Uniting with Hobie is a very proud day in our company’s history,” Johnny Morris, Founder and Lead Outfitter, and Bryan Niketh, President of Manufacturing at White River Marine Group, said in the release. “We extend Hobie dealers a warm welcome to our White River Family. We are deeply committed to Hobie and supporting its dealer network as we embark on a very bright future together.”
The project is supported by the State of Missouri, the Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED), Missouri Partnership, the City of Lebanon and Lebanon Regional Economic Development, Inc. (Lebanon REDI).
“DED is excited to support White River Marine Group as they help Missourians prosper in Lebanon,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “This project was made possible by our state’s economic advantages and collaboration with our incredible partners.”
“We are proud that Missouri is home to the headquarters of global powerhouse Bass Pro Shops and industry leader White River Marine Group,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “Their decision to reshore jobs to our state is a testament to Missouri’s skilled workforce and pro-business environment. We are looking forward to adding Hobie watercraft to the long list of innovative products and storied brands that are made in Missouri.”
White River Marine Group’s extensive dealer network has long been a cornerstone of its success, built on decades of strong relationships and unwavering support, according to the DED.
“DED is excited to support White River Marine Group as they help Missourians prosper in Lebanon,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “This project was made possible by our state’s economic advantages and collaboration with our incredible partners.”
For this expansion, White River Marine Group will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation, she said.
