HOMEGROWN
INNOVATION Lawrence manufacturers create local value by producing their products right here.
by Anne Brockhoff, photos by Steven Hertzog
Lawrence isn’t usually thought of as a manufacturing town, so it’s startling to discover how many everyday products are produced here. Companies big and small underpin the local economy as they make plastic to-go cups, dog kibble, souvenir pint glasses and more, often while leading the way in technological innovation, environmental sustainability and workforce development. 40
“A lot of people find it surprising how important and how vital it is,” says Steve Kelly, vice president of economic development at the Lawrence Chamber/Economic Development Council of Douglas County. “Quite a number of manufacturers in this community have a significant impact on the economy.” The proof is in the numbers. Manufacturing employs almost 5,000 people in Douglas County, according to Kansas Manufacturing Solutions’ 2021 Manufacturing in Kansas Report. Companies also spend on raw materials and services, pay city and
