Entrepreneurs in De Soto claim that the Panasonic project has significantly increased business opportunities

Caroline Hogan of KSHB 41 covers the development in the Kansas City-metro area. If you have a story idea, you can reach out to her via email at caroline.hogan@kshb.com.

Residents of De Soto have been witnessing the growth of the Panasonic EV battery plant since its groundbreaking in 2022. Local businesses are already experiencing the benefits even though construction is set to be completed in 2025. One such example is Cause Coffee, owned by Tara Stucky, who has seen a boost in clientele and has doubled her staff since construction began.

Stucky mentioned that construction workers, managers, and other businesses are contributing to the increased business at Cause Coffee. All profits from the coffee shop go back into the community and support other non-profit organizations. Despite the uncertainty of what the future holds, Stucky sees the growth as a positive development for the town.

Donnie Christ, the owner of Beer 30, shared that his business had been struggling due to the challenges posed by COVID and inflation. However, the presence of the Panasonic plant has brought about a positive change in business prospects. Christ mentioned that they have seen a 5% increase in profits with more people coming in from the plant.

While business owners like Christ and Stucky are optimistic about the growth brought about by the plant, some residents are not as enthusiastic. Some residents have expressed concerns about increased taxes and an influx of new people in the town. Christ acknowledged these concerns but emphasized the inevitability of change and the importance of making the best of it.

Both Stucky and Christ believe that despite the challenges, accepting and adapting to the changes brought about by the Panasonic plant can lead to overall positive outcomes for the community. They are both hopeful that the growth and opportunities presented by the plant will benefit the town in the long run.