When companies are ready to expand or relocate, they need more than a great location — they seek competitive advantages to increase their odds of success. Those that choose Kansas get all of the above.
Kansas’ central location offers company supply chains the ability to distribute more, in less time, and at a lower cost. Located in the heart of the country, 85 percent of the U.S. can be reached in two days or less by freight. Kansas is well equipped for virtually all logistics ventures, offering:- 25,000 highway miles
- 4,257 total rail miles
- 140 public-use airports
- The second-largest rail hub in the nation
In addition, Kansas is home to major logistics parks — including the Logistics Park Kansas City Intermodal Facility, the second largest in the nation — providing companies with the infrastructure for quick and efficient distribution to anywhere in the world.
These resources and economic opportunities have attracted major supply chain and distribution companies to the state, including Urban Outfitters, Kubota, American Eagle Outfitters, Amazon, The Home Depot, Frito-Lay, Cargill, Walmart, and others. More than 7,000 logistics and distribution businesses currently operate in Kansas.
As the logistics ecosystem expands, the case becomes even stronger for companies in other sectors to capitalize on Kansas’ distribution advantages.
“Kansas is attracting world leaders in advanced manufacturing, agriculture, food production, aviation, transportation, and other sectors for a variety of reasons,” said Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland. “While our central location is cited as a key starting point, our ready workforce and commitment to innovation often seal the deal.”
Infrastructure
Kansas’ robust infrastructure has been a key factor in attracting supply chain and logistics companies. Several logistics and industrial parks across the state offer direct access to highways, rail hubs, and commercial airports. As a result, supply chain distributors are investing in Kansas at a higher rate than ever, making the state a dominant hub for logistics success across industries.
Whether a company is looking to relocate to an urban or rural area, Kansas offers logistics and industrial parks throughout the state — most with access to at least one mode of transportation. Notable parks include:- Logistics Park Kansas City, Edgerton: highway, railroad, and commercial airport hub
- Kansas Logistics Park, Newton: highway and railroad access
- Great Plains Industrial Park, Parsons: shovel-ready site for a megaproject
- New Century AirCenter, New Century: commercial air and rail hub
There are currently 17 designated Kansas Certified Sites available, ranging from 13 to more than 500 acres. These shovel-ready industrial parks are primed for development and ready for investment.
“We have available, move-in-ready spaces at several of our logistics and industrial parks — and they are eager to assist companies expanding their distribution efforts,” said Deputy Secretary of Business Development Joshua Jefferson. “Whether your business is looking for quicker delivery options or establishing more supply chains here in the U.S., Kansas has a place for you to succeed.”
Strategic Approach
Kansas’ recruiting success is driven by its economic development strategic plan, the Kansas Framework for Growth. This blueprint aims to foster sustainable partnerships and economic expansion through workforce development, innovation, community assets, and policy alignment.
The plan outlines key industries that strengthen the Kansas economy and attract new business. Target sectors include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, food and agriculture, professional and technical services, distribution, logistics, and transportation.
In the past six years alone, this intentional strategy has helped secure more than $23 billion in committed private investment and created or retained over 75,000 jobs. Approximately 90 percent of those projects align with the Framework’s target industries.
Educational Institutions and Workforce
An available, skilled logistics workforce is another key factor in attracting businesses to Kansas. Partnerships with the state’s colleges and universities help prepare future workers and sustain long-term industry growth.
Institutions such as Wichita State University, WSU Tech, the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Johnson County Community College offer programs ranging from CDL certificates to advanced degrees in supply chain management. These schools actively collaborate with the private sector to support continued success.
By investing in educational institutions, Kansas is also investing in its workforce. The state supports technical colleges, internships, and registered apprenticeships to ensure a strong talent pipeline for years to come.
Move It to the Middle
Whether your company is looking to lower shipping costs, expand its workforce, or improve delivery speed, Kansas has the options and infrastructure to support long-term success.
Ready to move it to the middle? Learn more about Kansas — the State of Unexpected — at kansascommerce.gov.
