Clarios to expand in St. Joseph, investing up to $390 million while creating 123 new jobs and retaining 936 jobs

Clarios, an American manufacturer of advanced, low-voltage battery technologies, announced today that it will expand its two facilities in St. Joseph, investing up to $390 million and creating up to 123 new jobs while retaining 936 jobs. This expansion is part of Clarios' broader national strategy to modernize its facilities and expand its production capacity.

"Clarios' continued investment in St. Joseph is a prime example of what's possible when a company chooses to grow where it's already planted roots," said Governor Mike Kehoe. "This expansion reinforces Missouri's critical role in the future of automotive innovation and ensures nearly 1,100 Missourians can continue building their careers right here at home."

Clarios' automotive battery manufacturing plant and distribution center, both located in St. Joseph, will be modernized to expand production capacity through this project. The increase in onshore automotive battery manufacturing will improve customer service while meeting the rise in demand for automotive batteries. This strategic move will also mitigate tariff exposure and logistics costs for the company.

"We're proud of our investments in St. Joseph and what it means to our workers and this community - and for the future we're building together," said Marc Andraca, President of Clarios U.S. Region. "We appreciate the leaders in St. Joseph and the State of Missouri for working with us to bring more jobs to the area. This is exactly the kind of collaboration that fuels growth for decades to come and we look forward to continuing this strong partnership."

Clarios' expansion also includes the retention of 936 existing positions, preserving the company's status as one of the largest employers in St. Joseph and the state's north region. The two locations recently celebrated 25 years in St. Joseph. Both existing positions and new jobs added as part of Clarios' expansion will pay an average wage well above the county average.

"Projects like this reflect the strength of our regional partnerships and the value of investing in the communities that keep Missouri's economy moving," said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. "By expanding two facilities, Clarios is deepening its commitment to the workforce and supply chain that make this region so competitive."

For this expansion, Clarios 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. Clarios is estimated to receive $5,603,531 through the Missouri Works Program subject to verification of program requirements. The company may receive assistance from Missouri One Start, a division of the Department of Economic Development. Missouri One Start assists eligible businesses with their recruitment and training needs.

What others are saying

"This is a major win for St. Joseph and our hardworking residents," said Natalie Hawn, President and CEO of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. "The addition of more 100 new jobs through Clarios means more opportunities for families, stronger economic stability, and continued momentum for our region. St. Joseph was competing with at least two other Clarios facilities in the United States for this tremendous investment. I'm very thankful for the Clarios leadership team's belief in the St. Joseph location and community and also grateful for the support of our many partners who helped make this happen here."

"This is a huge win for St. Joseph," said St. Joseph Mayor Larry Miller. "The Clarios expansion, bringing over 100 jobs and more than $300 million in investment, shows what we have always known: Our workforce is strong because of the great people behind it, our infrastructure is ready and our future is bright. As a former employee of the company, I am especially proud to see this continued commitment to our community"

"This project represents meaningful progress for Buchanan County and the families who live and work here," said Scott Nelson, Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner. "I'm proud to welcome this investment and the lasting impact it will bring for generations to come."

"Evergy is proud to support Clarios as they expand their footprint across two facilities in St. Joseph," said Carrie Koelzer, Customer Solutions Manager for Evergy. "By providing targeted incentives and working closely with our Economic Development team, we were able to help foster a competitive environment that keeps this important investment right here in our community. We value our partnership with Clarios and look forward to their continued success in St. Joseph."

About Clarios

Clarios is the global leader in advanced, low-voltage battery technologies for mobility. The company's batteries and smart solutions power nearly every type of vehicle and are found in 1 of 3 cars on the road today. With around 18,000 employees in over 100 countries, Clarios brings a deep expertise to its Aftermarket and OEM partners, and reliability, safety and comfort to everyday lives. The company answers to the planet with a rigorous sustainability focus - advancing best-in-class sustainability practices and advocating for them across its industry. Clarios works to ensure 100% of its products sold are recyclable, and the company recycles 8,000 batteries an hour in its network.

To learn more about Clarios, visit clarios.com.

About the Missouri Department of Economic Development

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri's businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.

For the latest updates on DED's current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED's website.

About the Missouri Works Program

As the state's number one incentive tool for expansion and retention, the Missouri Works Program helps businesses access capital through withholdings or tax credits to embark on facility expansions and create jobs. This program can also help businesses purchase equipment to maintain its facility in Missouri.

About Missouri One Start

Missouri One Start is the state's premier workforce recruitment and training division. It helps eligible businesses of all sizes stay competitive by providing customized recruitment assistance, along with resources to train and upskill new and existing employees. Its recruitment strategies and training programs are tailored to the specific workforce needs of the businesses it serves.